Colloidal dispersions are increasingly of interest to scientists as delivery systems in industries such as food, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and biotechnology. The ability of these small particles to encapsulate and deliver drug components to a target body system is much more effective than a basic emulsion with larger particle size. In this edition, the difference between micro and nano emulsions is first clarified. Then we will analyze the role of industrial homogenizers in maximizing the efficiency of these particles.
Micro/Nano Emulsions
Micro/nano emulsions are homogenous mixtures of oil, water, and surfactant that comprise the two most commonly used types of colloidal dispersions. They have many similarities, such as the key trait of small particle size - microemulsions range from 20-200 nm and nanoemulsions are <100 nm. Each can be developed as a water-in-oil emulsion or, alternatively, oil-in-water emulsion; since oil-in-water emulsions can carry lipophilic components, these are more commonly seen in industrial practices. Central to distinguishing between nano and microemulsions is their stability. Whereas microemulsions are thermodynamically stable, nanoemulsions are thermodynamically unstable; this difference is attributed to free energy of the colloidal suspensions compared with the phase separated states.
Regardless of their differences, both types of particles are ideal delivery systems because of the enhanced drug solubilization, which increases bioavailability. Because of their lipophilic and hydrophobic domains, micro/nano emulsions can incorporate a wide spectrum of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic products. Additional benefits for both researcher and consumer include longer shelf life and ease in preparation and administration.
Industrial Homogenizers
Now that the critical function of micro/nano emulsions has been established, their preparation should be taken into consideration. Industrial homogenizers provide large-scale mixing and particle size reduction for products that are being manufactured to consumers. This equipment has three key characteristics that allow it to maximize efficiency of its products, particularly in the case of micro/nano emulsions:
- Application in a variety of industries
- Particle size reduction that is unmatched by other mixing techniques
- Uniformity in size and consistency, which correlates to bioavailability
By gaining access to a high-quality industrial homogenizer, your micro/nano emulsions will have stronger and more efficient function and, importantly, increased customer interest.
Product Recommendation: BEEI Industrial Homogenizer
Indicted for its ability to achieve impressive particle size reduction, the BEE brand industrial homogenizer from Pion sets an impressive standard for the homogenization equipment industry. Our homogenizers contain proprietary technology as well as a proprietary pumping system that allows for tighter end products and a constant system, and their homogenizer operating pressure ranges up to the highest available in few passes.
In addition, Pion has extensive experience assisting its product users as they transition through the drug development process, starting at R&D, through clinical trials, and into the critical period of manufacturing to customers.
