Core-shell micro/nanocapsules: from encapsulation to applications

Encapsulation is the way to wrap or coat one substance as a core inside another tiny substance known as a shell at micro and nano scale for protecting the active ingredients from the exterior environment. A lot of active substances, such as flavours, enzymes, drugs, pesticides, vitamins, in addition to catalysts being effectively encapsulated within capsules consisting of different natural as well as synthetic polymers comprising poly(methacrylate), poly(ethylene glycol), cellulose, poly(lactide), poly(styrene), gelatine, poly(lactide-co-glycolide)s, and acacia. The developed capsules release the enclosed substance conveniently and in time through numerous mechanisms, reliant on the ultimate use of final products. Such technology is important for several fields counting food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, agriculture, and textile industries. The present review focuses on the most important and high-efficiency methods for manufacturing micro/nanocapsules and their several applications in our life.

Automated summary

Encapsulation is a process of wrapping one substance inside another at micro and nano scale to protect the active ingredients. Different types of capsules made of natural and synthetic polymers can effectively encapsulate various active substances and release them through different mechanisms. This technology is important in several industries such as food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, agriculture, and textile. The review focuses on the most important methods of manufacturing micro/nanocapsules and their applications in our daily lives.