Environmentally controlled emulsion electrospinning for the encapsulation of temperature-sensitive compounds

Abstract

The introduction of highly volatile fragrances within polymeric nano-scaled fibers is a promising route for efficient and simple encapsulation of temperature-sensitive materials. This work describes the investigation of selected parameters influencing the electrospinning of emulsions of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and (R)-(?) limonene or hexadecane. Thereby the influence of environmental parameters such as temperature and relative humidity on the fiber structure and encapsulation efficiency (EE) of the fragrance is demonstrated. For that purpose, the electrospinning process was carried out in a climatic cabin in which temperature and relative humidity were controlled. Studied temperatures ranged from 8 to 24°C and relative humidity varied between 55 and 85 %. The influence of temperature was dependent on the PVA concentration in the emulsion. The relative humidity influenced both the obtained fiber morphology and fragrance EE to a higher extent than the temperature due to the hydrophilic nature of the PVA. This study is of importance when considering the use of emulsion electrospinning for encapsulation purposes.

Preparation of ellipsoid-shaped supraparticles with modular compositions and investigation of shape-dependent cell-uptake

“…The relative humidity has been reported before to possess a strong influence on fiber formation from PVA and other water soluble polymers with lower values resulting in faster evaporation and thereby thicker fibers. [38][39][40][41] As expected, we found generally homogeneous but slightly thicker fibers at lower relative humidity to yield a lower amount of elongated ESPs (Fig. 2C), a result which can be attributed to the strong relationship between fiber diameter and cluster elongation.…”

Recent advancements in electrospinning design for tissue engineering applications: A review

“…Emulsion electrospinning enables the encapsulation of compounds within fibers for drug delivery applications and fabrication of porous fibers to enhance mesh porosity. Many studies have reported successful encapsulation of hydrophobic compounds (mineral oil, β‐carotene, fish oil, and n ‐butyl acetate) within hydrophilic polymers . Surfactants such as Pluronics P105, Tween 20, and Span 80 are often used to stabilize the emulsion for the course of spinning.…”

“…Many studies have reported successful encapsulation of hydrophobic compounds (mineral oil, b-carotene, fish oil, and n-butyl acetate) within hydrophilic polymers. [65][66][67][68][69] Surfactants such as Pluronics P105, Tween 20, and Span 80 are often used to stabilize the emulsion for the course of spinning. Enzymes, growth factors, and drugs are often emulsified within hydrophobic polymers to retain bioactivity and promote sustained release over standard blending procedures.…”

Emulsion-based systems for fabrication of electrospun nanofibers: food, pharmaceutical and biomedical applications

“…It was selected to be encapsulated in bers fabricated by the electrospinning of emulsions of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). 57 In this study, the effects of two environmental parameters including temperature (8 to 24 C) and relative humidity (55 to 85%) on the formation of bers were investigated. Hexadecane, with low volatility and high melting point, was applied as the dispersed phase.…”