Abstract
The distribution of hazelnut oil (HNO) in a melt-processed co-continuous blend of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) shows the formation of a dense array of self-assembled HNO microdroplets at the PCL/PEO interface, as revealed by electron and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy. The microstructure formation is dominated by thermodynamics and corresponds to a partial wetting type of morphology, as predicted by a set of three spreading coefficients, where all three phases meet along a common line of contact. The effects of oil concentration (2.5–10%) on the microdroplets size is investigated at two mixing temperatures, 100 and 150°C. Interestingly, the interfacial microdroplets do not perturb the co-continuous morphology, are particularly stable, and demonstrate almost no size dependence on oil concentration. This work opens up new perspectives for material design comprising active agent transfers at interfaces.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.