Description of the Membrane Emulsification Process

Principle of membrane emulsification process

Simple or multiple emulsions or microgels were produced by dispersing the hydrophobic phase (liquid oil, heated fat or w/o emulsion) or hydrophilic phase (water, polysaccharide solution) through the micro-porous material (glass or ceramic) into the flowing continuous phase containing emulsifiers (low or high molecular emulsifiers). The particle size distribution of MPG emulsions is determined by the pore size of the membrane, the velocity of continuous phase (or wall shear stress) and the transmembrane pressure.

Main advantages of the MPG emulsification

• Highly sensitive components can be added to the continuous phase before emulsification.
   
• The emulsification process takes place under low energy input.
   
• The particle size and the particle size distribution can be influenced with lower effort.
   
• Multiple emulsion systems can be prepared with higher yield.
   
• Microgels can be prepared with tailored particle size range.