Parameter Selection of Emulsification Processes: Conditions for Nano‐ and Macroemulsions

Abstract

AbstractBeside factors like nature of the emulsifier as well as rheology of the interface and continuous phase, the droplet size distribution of an emulsion governs emulsion properties such as long‐term stability over months or years, texture, and optical appearance. Consequently, emulsions with droplets in nano‐scale are of interest when well‐defined emulsion properties are needed. The formation of emulsions consisting of water, corn oil, and nonionic surfactants using disc systems and high‐pressure homogenizers was studied. The emulsion droplet size distributions were obtained by means of a laser diffraction method. The influence of parameters affecting the emulsion formation, such as emulsification time, viscosity for the disc system, pressure, and homogenizing steps for high‐pressure homogenization, was investigated. Data to determine the effect of the surfactant type and concentration were collected for both systems. The emulsification process using a disc system was evaluated in order to highlight its advantages and limits in comparison to high‐pressure homogenization.