3 Industries Where Ultrasonic Emulsification is Changing the Game

Posted by David Shechter on Dec 28, 2021 10:45:00 AM

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Many industries depend on ultrasonic emulsification to get their products out the door and in front of customers. Put plainly, ultrasonic emulsification is basically vigorous mixing, and many industries use it because it is the only way to facilitate the combining of certain types of substances: those that are naturally immiscible, like oil and water, for example. Keep reading for a quick overview of ultrasonic emulsification, the industries that rely on it and info on an alternative piece of equipment that can vastly improve the process:

What is Ultrasonic Emulsification?

As mentioned, ultrasonic emulsification is a powerful way of mixing two liquids so that one is completely dispersed throughout the other and neither will revert back to its original properties over time. Of course, there are other ways of facilitating emulsification, but ultrasonic emulsification relies on ultrasound energy (high frequency vibrations that cause cavitation) to forcibly combine the two substances. Think about many popular food items, like salad dressing; you know that oftentimes you need to shake the bottle before pouring in order to evenly blend the dressing’s ingredients and not end up with a bowl full of oil (or vinegar) only! Ultrasonic emulsification is just a high-tech method of performing the same process. Since oil and water do not mix, (no matter how much shaking or cavitation is applied) an emulsifier or surfactant, an additional ingredient that mixes well with both water and oil, is added so that two substances mixed with the right mixing technology can stay mixed in a homogeneous state.

Industries that Depend on Ultrasonic Emulsification

In addition to the food industry, there are many other industries that create common and highly useful products via ultrasonic emulsification.

  • The Pharmaceutical Industry

In the pharmaceutical industry, it is often necessary to create oil-in-water emulsions in order to make medicines more palatable and to increase their efficacy by evenly dispersing their active ingredients. Without ultrasonic emulsification, for instance, many drug products would remain in an unmixed state, too bitter to ingest and/or unable to work effectively since they would inevitably deliver inconsistent dosages of the ingredients needed every time they were taken. It's just like that bottle of dressing that was not shaken before being poured and therefore spurted out alternating globs of oil and vinegar but never an actual vinaigrette.

  • The Beauty Industry

Similarly, most cosmetics, perfumes, and skin and hair care products need to undergo some type of emulsification process to ensure that they look appealing and can be applied evenly across the skin. Ultrasonic emulsification, in particular, simultaneously mixes and breaks apart substances into incredibly small particles (more so than mere mixers or blenders), enabling manufacturers to better guarantee that their products will possess a smoother consistency and be more easily absorbed into the skin. Furthermore, substances with smaller particle sizes are more stable, meaning they last longer than products that haven’t been properly mixed or have been mixed using only mechanical means.

  • The Cannabis Industry

Perhaps, however, the cannabis industry is currently reaping the best results as a result of their emulsification processes. In this rapidly growing market, the best-tasting and most potent cannabis products are the ones in demand. Ultrasonic emulsification allows manufacturers to guarantee a consistent product each and every time it leaves a production line since it reduces the size of cannabinoid molecules, making it easier for them to be absorbed by the body and also delivering a more uniform amount of active ingredient with every swig, bite, puff, swallow, chew, rub, spray or any other type of ingestion/application!

The BEE International Advantage

There’s no doubt that emulsification has changed the game for countless industries, allowing them to create products that last longer, taste better and/or provide better and more consistent effects than those that haven’t undergone the same type of robust processing. 

There is an even better alternative, though: high pressure homogenizers (HPH). Our HPHs here at BEE International, for example, utilize a patented Emulsifying Cell (EC) technology that surpasses the limited cavitation capacity of ultrasonic equipment and also employs other mixing forces of turbulence such as shear and impact. Control levels of each of these forces is in the hands of the user with BEE HPHs which means you can control the most efficient process for your product and the very best efficiency yield. Products emulsified with our homogenizers possess the tightest distribution of the smallest possible particle sizes and provide even higher quality products than ultrasonic mixers, sonicators, or other types of sonic mixers. Unlike sonication, BEE's proprietary homogenizing processes can scale up with ease as all our technology is built on the same platform (from R&D or Lab to pilot to manufacturing). Ultimately, this means companies spend less time and less money during their process manufacturing!

There’s a reason we’re called BEE; we offer the “Best Emulsifying Equipment” on the market. To learn more about our products and the technologies that make our HPHs the best option for your own emulsifying needs, please contact us today.

What is Emulsification and How Is It Used to Produce Cannabis Nanoemulsions

Posted by Deb Shechter on Aug 26, 2020 9:15:00 AM

Bee International helps cannabis producers with emulsification to create a superior productThe legal cannabis industry is a multibillion dollar enterprise that rests largely on the quality of the cannabis plant’s active components. Called cannabinoids, these chemical compounds — when effectively harvested and processed — are capable of bonding with receptors in our bodies and have the potential to produce anti-inflammatory, analgesic, euphoric and/or calming effects. Indeed, cannabinoids have been used by humans, both clinically and recreationally, for thousands of years, suggesting they are safe to consume with many beneficial properties.

But just because humans have a history of safely using cannabis products, it doesn’t mean that all cannabis products are created equal. Changes to federal and state laws have decriminalized cannabis use and relaxed criminal mandates in many areas of the country, allowing more and more players to enter the CBD and cannabis market. The result: a plethora of products but few standards. Yes, most states regulate the manufacture of cannabis products, but many lack even minimum requirements for potency, safety and/or testing; consumers are simply at the mercy of manufacturers, hoping they actually get what they pay for.

To better guarantee the quality and effectiveness of their products, reputable manufacturers work to create their own production processes that both sustain and maximize cannabinoid stability and bioavailability and deliver reliable results — in this case, medicines and products that are capable of provoking specific physiological effect(s) — each and every time. They do that by emulsifying the cannabis during production. Here’s how it works:

What Is Emulsification?

Emulsification is the mixing together of two or more substances that wouldn’t normally be able to combine. A chef vigorously whisking oil into vinegar to make a dressing is an example momentarily of a mix, but within seconds separation occurs. Emulsification adds an emulsifying agent, something that successfully binds the oil and water phase together without separation.

Cannabis manufacturers also use emulsification to ensure that the cannabinoids they extract from cannabis plants are able to be incorporated into viable products — drinks, creams, edibles and more that taste, look and/or smell good and that deliver the same results with each production run. The stability of these products, part of which is determined by the length of time the components do not separate, extends shelf life and expiration date.

How Are Homogenizers Used in Cannabis Production?

The process starts with the harvesting of the cannabis plant. From there, a manufacturer must extract the cannabinoids, basically a sticky syrup that is then refined, purified and distilled (or separated) from compounds that aren’t needed, such as terpenes, flavonoids and other contaminants. It is this resulting substance — an oily, bitter isolate that naturally repels water — that necessitates the emulsification process. At this point, the cannabinoid isolate is exposed to mixing equipment that uses one or more forces to break apart the chemical bonds of the cannabinoids and reduce the size of their particles.

Homogenization is the ideal mixing method. It is an in-line process, which means that all particles undergo the same mixing forces and there is less variation in the results. This eliminates “hot spots “in the end product. Homogenization is also an efficient mixing process, which means less time to produce a better effect.

Why BEE International Homogenizers Are the Best at Emulsifying

Typical emulsifiers use only one type of force, but a BEE International homogenizer uses multiple forces (turbulence, cavitation, shear and impact) to break apart and reduce particles. This creates smaller particles, maximizing the surface area of the cannabinoids.

BEE International homogenizers are versatile, with the ability to deliver a gentle mix to the most intense mixing process with up to 45,000 PSI. The intensity breaks product particles into the smallest size, down to nanometers. Smaller particles make it easier for their particles to completely mix, stay mixed with the aid of an emulsifier and deliver a product that is shelf stable and ready to be used. Smaller particles also increase potency and bioavailability up to 75%.

Only BEE International homogenizers have an option to eliminate the need for pre-mixing. This increases the efficiency and ease of the manufacturing process with less equipment and fewer manufacturing phases.

To learn more about the benefits of our patented Emulsifying Cell (EC) technology, as well as our proprietary systems, please contact us. We can help you choose equipment that guarantees safe and effective products, enabling you to stand superior to the competition and offer the most benefits to consumers.

 

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How to Improve Oil Emulsification with a Homogenizer

Posted by Deb Shechter on Jan 31, 2019 11:00:00 AM

oil emulsification with homogenizersEmulsification is the process by which two naturally immiscible liquids are forcefully mixed together. Salad vinaigrettes, mayonnaise, butter, cold creams, lip balms and medicated ointments are all examples of emulsions. Depending on the ratio of oil to water, emulsions are typically categorized as either oil suspended in water (o/w) or water suspended in oil (w/o). Using the right emulsifying agent and the right kind of force, you can compel either type of mixture, effectively manufacturing many textile, plastic and paper products and improving the stability, bioavailability and viability for a variety of food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical ones (among others). Take a look at how a high pressure homogenizer can improve the oil emulsification process in particular, giving you better products in less time:

But First…The Difference Between an Emulsifier and a Homogenizer

Both emulsifiers and homogenizers forcefully mix many substances. But while an emulsifier only makes use of one type of mechanical force, a homogenizer makes use of many. At BEE International, our proprietary homogenizing system combines turbulent premixing with product progression through highly pressurized spaces, utilizing shear, cavitation and impact to break apart particles and uniformly mix and blend them. The result is a product with multiple benefits.

The Benefits of Using a Homogenizer in the Oil Emulsification Process

The benefits of using a homogenizer to create emulsified products are two-fold:

  1. It Reduces Particle Size

The high pressure and additional forces used by high pressure homogenizing systems (like those with our patented BEE International Emulsifying Cell technology) drastically reduce product particle size. Sub-micro particles have more surface area per particle, which means each has more opportunity to interact with another. This not only makes it easier for mixing agents to do their job (after all, they have a larger area on which to apply their “glue”), it also creates a final product with identical (i.e., homogenous) properties, improving the texture, consistency and appearance of many consumables, (especially important for those in the food and cosmetic markets) and increasing the bioavailability of drugs for the pharmaceutical industry.

  1. It Efficiently and Effectively Mixes Resistant Substances

The vigorous and multiple forces utilized by homogenizers make it harder for product particles to resist initial mixing and harder for them to separate afterwards. It also allows for large volume processing since homogenizers have greater capacities than traditional emulsifiers. The ability to create more stable products with longer shelf lives in shorter amounts of time with fewer passes saves time and money, valuable benefits for companies wanting to make the most of their resources.

Ready To Learn More?

The value of a high pressure homogenizer extends far beyond mere mixing of substances, making it the equipment of choice for companies wanting to maximize their processes while still achieving a superior meld. If you need assistance determining if or how homogenizers can improve your manufacturing turnover, as well as provide you with superior oil emulsifications, contact our team at BEE International. Our HPP homogenizers aid all types of businesses, including those in the food, pharmaceutical, chemical, biofuel and cosmetic industries and more. 

Feel free to also download our free eBook, "How to Achieve Efficient & Consistent Particle Size Reduction," for additional information about the value of smaller particle size within a manufacturing context.

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Oil-in-Water and Water-in-Oil Emulsions: What's the Difference?

Posted by Deb Shechter on Apr 24, 2018 10:30:00 AM

oil in water and water in oil emulsionsYou’ve no doubt heard the phrase “Oil and water don’t mix.” It’s basically a way of saying certain items or people do not go well together. However, oil and water can mix with the right ingredients – specifically, emulsifiers. Emulsifiers prevent oil and water from separating by establishing a barrier that protects the droplets.

When oil and water are mixed powerfully, they form either oil-in-water (o/w) or water-in-oil (w/o) emulsions. In o/w emulsions, oil is dispersed in a continuous water phase, while in w/o emulsions, water droplets are dispersed in oil. The result of an emulsion of oil and water mix is depended on the volume fraction of both phases and the kind of emulsifier utilized. You can actually tell the difference between the two by measuring the electrical conductivity of the emulsion. If there is no conductivity, it’s an w/o emulsion.

Both o/w and w/o emulsions have unique applications and chemical properties, and you can better choose the type you want to use if you know more about these differences. In this blog, we’ll provide some characteristics of o/w and w/o emulsions and describe some of the differences between the two.

Oil-in-Water Emulsions

Used in moisturizing products and food products such as milk, mayonnaise and vinaigrette, o/w emulsions contain a low oil concentration. They are mixable with water, non-greasy, non-occlusive and will absorb water. The dispersion medium in these emulsions is water; o/w emulsifiers keep oil drops packed in water.

Water-in-Oil Emulsions

These emulsions are utilized in products including butter, margarine, cold cream and cod liver oil and are especially useful in products designed for dry or sensitive skin. Common w/o emulsifiers are sorbitan stearate, polyglyceryl oleate, lecithin, sorbitan monooleate and lanolin. Sometimes referred to as an inverse emulsion, w/o emulsions mix more easily with oils and have a high oil concentration. Producing w/o emulsions is more difficult than developing their o/w emulsions.

Following are three additional differences between o/w and w/o emulsions:

1. Suspended vs. continuous phase

The biggest difference between o/w and w/o emulsions is which phase is suspended and which is continuous. Oil and water are normally immiscible, but with proper mixing and stability agents, a permanent mixture, or emulsion, can be achieved. Smaller droplet sizes will enhance the effectiveness of either system; this may translate to increased bioavailability in pharmaceutical products or extended shelf life in food/beverage products.

2. Type of product that can be created

The chemical nature of an o/w emulsion is distinct from that of a w/o emulsion; each is most effectively used in different products. O/w emulsions are the basis of water-based products; in the pharmaceutical industry, they can be found in creams like moisturizers and topical steroid products. In contrast, w/o emulsions make up oil-based products like sunscreen and most makeup.

3. How to achieve stability 

Stability is key when considering an emulsion synthesis technique; without it, the two phases will separate, and the product will have lower function. All emulsions require an emulsifier to assist with stability. O/w emulsions typically require more than one emulsifier, and they can be acquired separately or in a pre-mixed cocktail. In contrast, while w/o emulsions only require one emulsifier, there is a limited number from which to select because the hydrophilic balance must be in a narrow range. 

Emulsions, emulsifiers, homogenization and other terms can be confusing, but at BEE International, we can steer you in the right direction based on your specific business needs. Simply contact us to learn more!

Check out our FREE animation on how our technology can be customized for your application for efficient and consistent results:

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Microemulsions as a Drug Delivery System

Posted by Tal Shechter on Mar 7, 2017 12:30:00 PM

drug-delivery.jpgHomogenization, also known as particle size reduction, is a technique that is gaining popularity in numerous industries, including pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food. In the pharmaceutical industry, where production of drugs, antibiotics, and other essential medications are paramount to the success of the industry, it is important to understand one important concept: microemulsions. To learn more about microemulsions – what they are, how they work, and how they are critical to the success of the pharmaceutical industry – continue reading.

Microemulsions are defined as clear, thermodynamically stable, liquid mixtures of oil, water, and a surfactant – a compound that lowers surface tension. While the aqueous phase of a microemulsion may contain salts or other ingredients, the oil phase is often a mixture of olefins and hydrocarbons. Microemulsions form upon mixing of the components, and do not require the high shear that is often necessary in the formulation of typical emulsions.

Microemulsions have a number of important uses, including (but not limited to) the following applications:

  • Water-in-oil microemulsions for dry cleaning processes
  • Floor polishers and cleaners
  • Personal care products such as creams and lotions
  • Pesticide formulations
  • Drugs

Microemulsions also have other applications, including the creation of polymers. During this process, the transport of free radicals, monomers, co-surfactants, inhibitors, and other species occurs across the aqueous and organic phases of a system.

In the world of drug delivery, self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems, which can be described as isotropic solutions of oils and surfactants that form oil in water microemulsions when they are introduced into an aqueous medium, can improve a number of processes. For example, when presented as capsules, these drug delivery systems can improve the absorption of active ingredients within the body. In addition, with active ingredients that are not water soluble, microemulsions can help resolve that issue, making drugs, antibiotics, and other products created by the drug industry more bioavailable to the end consumer.

BEE International offers a number of homogenization equipment that can help with the formation of microemulsions. Our laboratory homogenizers, including the Nano DeBEE, Mini DeBEE, and Micro DeBEE, are well suited for this application, as well as other applications within the research and development community. Other features and benefits of our laboratory homogenizers include:

  • Maximum operating pressure of up to 45,000 psi
  • Maximum capacity of up to 400 mL/min
  • Ability to create emulsions, dispersions, and microemulsions
  • Capabilities for cell rupture and liposome work

To learn more about what BEE International has to offer, please contact us today.

For more information on cell lysis methods, download our FREE eBook:

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How to Select a Homogenizer for Emulsions

Posted by Deb Shechter on Jan 27, 2017 12:30:00 PM

how to select a homogenizer.jpgHomogenization, also known as particle size reduction, is an ever-growing process that is used in a variety of industries, including (but not limited to) pharmaceutical, biotech, cosmetic, and food. With benefits like reduction of product cost, improved taste, appearance, texture, and shelf life, and increased overall customer satisfaction, it’s no wonder more and more industries are looking to adapt this unique processing step.

When it comes to creating emulsions with a homogenizer, the opportunities – and possibilities – are endless.  At BEE International, our line of high pressure homogenizers create high quality micro and nano emulsions that boast the following qualities:

  • Droplet size at or below 100nm
  • Extension of product shelf life
  • Increased efficacy
  • Controlled release of finished product
  • Extremely small and uniform particles that can be easily sterilized
  • Clear emulsions

However, before choosing the right homogenizer to create stable micro and nano emulsions, it is beneficial to know a bit about our wide variety of options. Continue reading to learn more about the homogenizers that we have available for purchase.

Laboratory Homogenizers

Our laboratory homogenizers at BEE International are well suited for the creation of cell dispersions and emulsions, and include the Nano DeBEE, Mini DeBEE, and Micro DeBEE. These homogenizers offer a maximum operating pressure of up to 45,000psi (3,100 bar), with a capacity of up to 400 mL/min and 22 L/hr. In addition, our laboratory homogenizers offer a guaranteed scale up to a pilot plant or industrial manufacturing setting.

Pilot Plant and Industrial Homogenizers

Similar to our line of laboratory homogenizers, our line of Pilot Plant and Industrial homogenizers – the DeBEE 2000, DeBEE 3000 and DeBEE 4000 -- offer high quality, repeatable, and scalable results. With features including multiple process intensifiers, synchronized pump systems, menu guided maintenance and calibration, and CE and cGMP compliance, these high pressure homogenizers are guaranteed to fit your industry’s unique processing needs.

BEE High Pressure Homogenizers

Our line of homogenizers at BEE International are suitable for a wide variety of needs, and one thing remains the same, no matter which homogenizer you select: our high quality. Our technology combines all available forces that affect the manufacturing process: turbulent premixing, cavitation, impact, high shear, and high intensity. Together, these forces ensure that your end result, whether it is cell disruption or the creation of stable emulsions, dispersions, and suspensions, will suit both your needs and the needs of your customer.

For more information on the suite of homogenization equipment offered at BEE International, please contact us today. In addition, our free eBook, "How to Achieve Efficient and Consistent Particle Size Reduction” is available for download here:

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Colloid vs. Suspension: What is the Difference?

Posted by Tal Shechter on Jan 25, 2017 12:30:00 PM

colloid vs suspensionHomogenizers are gaining popularity in the industries of biotech, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food. They have been proven to simplify processes, improve taste, texture, and appearance of finished products, and save money – and time. Who wouldn’t want to implement this powerful technology? However, before selecting a homogenizer for the task at hand, it is important to understand two important by-products of homogenization – suspensions and emulsions. What are suspensions and emulsions? What are the differences? And how are they related to homogenization? Continue reading to learn the answers to these questions and more.

Suspensions

A suspension, simply put, is a mixture of two substances – one dispersed into the other. Examples of suspensions include droplets of oil in air, and sand in water. Particles in a suspension are easy to see, as they are larger than the particles making up the solution. Because of this quality, these larger particles within a suspension will settle if allowed to stand undisturbed. This inherent quality also makes suspensions very easy to separate through filtration.

Colloids

Colloids, like suspensions, can also be defined as a mixture of two components. The particles in a colloid can be solid, liquid, or gas; similarly, the medium that these particles are suspended in can also be solid, liquid, or gas. However, unlike suspensions, particles in a colloid are miniscule in size and cannot be easily separated or filtered. However, although the particles are small in size, they can be seen, thanks to the Tyndall effect, which is defined as the scattering of light by particles in a colloid.

BEE Homogenizers

With the knowledge of suspensions and colloids firmly under your belt, you can now wisely choose the right homogenizer for your application. No matter what the end goal, BEE International has the right homogenizer for the task. Our homogenizers are suitable for virtually any application and environment, including laboratory use, as well as pilot plant and industrial use. Our homogenizers offer the following benefits:

  • Guaranteed scale-up to production
  • Proprietary high pressure intensifier system
  • Compliant with CFR 21 part 11 requirements
  • Wide range of production capabilities and levels of automation
  • SCADA compliance
  • Sanitary design and features suitable for the pharmaceutical industry
  • Security modes and authorizations

To learn more about how our suite of high pressure homogenizers can help with your industry’s needs, please contact us today. For even more information, our eBook, “How to Achieve Efficient & Consistent Particle Size Reduction” can be downloaded for free here:

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Suspension vs. Emulsion: How Do They Differ?

Posted by Deb Shechter on Jan 20, 2017 12:30:00 PM

suspensions and emulsionHomogenization – also known as particle size reduction – is a growing technique used in a multitude of industries. With benefits to the end product including longer shelf life, lower cost, and improved look, taste, and texture, it’s no wonder more and more industries are looking to incorporate this technique into their process!

In the world of homogenization, two terms that are often used are emulsion and suspension. But what do these terms mean, and how do they differ from one another? Continue reading to learn more about emulsion and suspension.

Suspension

A suspension is an evenly dispersed mixture of substances consisting of two components: the dispersed material and the dispersion medium. The dispersed material is usually in a solid phase, although it can take the form of any phase. The dispersion medium is what the dispersed materials are distributed in. For example, in an example using muddy water, the dispersed material would be soil or dirt, and the dispersion medium would be water. Particles in a suspension are typically visible to the naked eye, and with filtration, one component can be separated from the other. Other examples of suspensions include sand in water, dust in air, or even droplets of oil in air.

Emulsion

An emulsion is similar to a suspension only in that it is a mixture of two components. That is where the similarities end, however. Unlike a suspension, which can consist of two components of any phase, an emulsion is a mixture of two liquids.

What makes an emulsion interesting is the fact that these two liquids are immiscible – that is, they are not able to be mixed without help. In other words, emulsions do not form spontaneously, and need an external force – mixing, shaking, stirring, or the addition of an emulsifier – to maintain its stability.

BEE International

BEE International has a number of high pressure homogenizers that are adept at creating stable nano and micro emulsions. Our focus on efficient, high quality, and repeatable particle size reduction results in emulsions that boast the following qualities:

  • Achieving the desired particle size with droplet sizes around or below 100mm
  • Extending product shelf life
  • Increased efficacy
  • Controlled release
  • Creation of products that minimize clogging
  • Products that are more cost effective, due to the even distribution of active ingredients


To learn more about suspensions and emulsions, as well as how to choose the best homogenizer for your industry’s needs, please contact us today.

For more information on how to achieve efficient and consistent particle size reduction, download our FREE eBook:

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Emulsions vs. Dispersions: What is the Difference?

Posted by Deb Shechter on Jan 10, 2017 12:30:00 PM

emulsions versus dispersionsHomogenization is the process of reducing particle size of molecules to aid in more efficient and higher quality emulsions and dispersions. This technique is used across numerous industries: pharmaceutical, biotech, cosmetic, drug, and food. However, before you begin your search for the right homogenizer to perform the task at hand, it is important to understand the world of emulsions and dispersions: what are they? How are they created? What are the differences between them? Although the terms are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two. Continue reading to learn more about dispersions and emulsions and how to choose the correct homogenizer for your industry’s needs.

Emulsions

An emulsion is defined as a heterogeneous system consisting of two liquids that are incapable of being mixed together. One example of a possible emulsion would be a mixture of oil and water – two immiscible liquids. To prevent the liquids from separating out – as they tend to do – a third liquid, called a surfactant, is added. The surfactant works to prevent the liquids from separating, and allows one liquid to be evenly dispersed into the other. When oil is the liquid that is dispersed, the emulsion is classified as an oil-in-water emulsion. Conversely, when water is the liquid that is dispersed, the emulsion is known as a water-in-oil dispersion.

Dispersions

Dispersions are also known as suspensions, and consist of solid particles – ranging anywhere from 0.001 micrometers to 1 micrometer -- distributed evenly throughout a continuous medium. Examples of dispersions include ink, dyes, and even food items, like barbecue sauce. While the process of dispersing is often referred to as grinding or milling, no particle grinding actually occurs. Instead, equipment like colloid mills, sand mills, or high pressure homogenizers are used to create dispersions.

Choosing the Right Homogenizer for your Needs

When creating a dispersion or emulsion for your industry’s application, it is important to choose a high quality homogenizer. A good high pressure homogenizer uses a large amount of energy to create emulsions, which means that less surfactant is needed to get the job done.  Similarly, when creating dispersions, high pressure homogenizers are highly efficient at creating very small particle sizes.

BEE International Homogenizers

BEE International has a number of high quality homogenizers to meet the needs of your industry. Our homogenizers work for virtually every setting, including laboratories, pilot plants, and industrial production. Contact us today to learn more about how our high pressure homogenizers can meet your specialized needs.

For more information on particle size reduction and how to achieve efficient and consistent results, download our FREE eBook:

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Oil Emulsions: Why High Pressure Homogenizers Perform Emulsions Best

Posted by Tal Shechter on Dec 14, 2016 12:30:00 PM

oil-emulsions.jpgAn emulsion is defined as a dispersion of one liquid into another immiscible liquid. An emulsion consists of two phases: the dispersed/internal phase and the continuous/external phase. Emulsions are created in a variety of In the world of oil emulsions, one of the liquids is aqueous and the other is oil. However, oil emulsions can be easily classified into three main groups: water-in-oil emulsions, oil-in-water emulsions, and multiple (or complex) emulsions. The type of emulsion formed is dependent on the amount of each phase that is present. Continue reading for a brief explanation of the various types of emulsions, and how BEE International’s line of high pressure homogenizers can assist with your next emulsification project.  

Water-In-Oil Emulsions

  • Water-in-oil emulsions consist of water droplets in an oil external phase. These are the most produced emulsions in the industry.

Oil-in-Water Emulsions

  • Oil-in-water emulsions consist of oil droplets in a water external phase. These are often referred to as reverse emulsions.

Multiple Emulsions

  • Also known as Complex Emulsions, these types of emulsions consist of water droplets suspended in bigger droplets suspended in a continuous phase.

High Pressure Homogenization for Nano/Micro Emulsions

BEE International’s line of high pressure homogenizers help with the creation of emulsions for a number of growing industries, including cosmetic, pharmaceutical, chemical, and food. Our high pressure homogenizers, like the DeBEE 2000, produce a homogenous mix of small, uniform particles for an evenly dispersed emulsion or mixture. Our equipment offers the following benefits:

  • Ability to produce nano and micro emulsions
  • Can achieve stable emulsions with droplet sizes below 100nm
  • Extended product shelf life and efficacy of resulting emulsion
  • Ability to vary shear force, impact force, and cavitation
  • Sanitary design
  • Modular design for lower cost replacement parts
  • Validation procedures and documentation
  • Data gathering capabilities
  • SCADA
  • Automated Clean In Place (CIP)
  • PLC Control and monitoring for simple push-button operation
  • Stainless steel enclosure
  • Guaranteed scale-up from R&D to manufacturing

BEE International offers a variety of high pressure homogenizers for use in all manufacturing settings, including laboratory, pilot plants, and large-scale industrial production plants.

Contact us today to learn more about how our line of high pressure homogenizers can help with your application. For more information on how our high pressure homogenizers can assist with the emulsion process, download our free eBook, “Advantages of BEE Homogenizers for the Pharmaceutical Industry”:

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