Pickering emulsions with enhanced storage stabilities by using hybrid β-cyclodextrin/short linear glucan nanoparticles as stabilizers

Stable Pickering emulsions were prepared by using hybrid beta-cyclodextrin/short linear glucan nanoparticles (beta-CD/SLG NPs). The beta-CD/SLG NPs displayed spherical shape and with an average size at around 60 nm. Newly formed SLG-beta-CD structure in the nanoparticles was thought the main reason for the improved thermal stability, alleviated aggregation, and improved dispersity in aqueous systems. Depending on the contact angle and zeta-potential results, unique emulsifying mechanism of beta-CD/SLG NPs was existed. The formation of inclusion complex between beta-CD and oil molecules accelerated the adsorption of the whole nanoparticles at the oil-water interface, while the swelling of SLG contributed to the long-term stability (6 months) of emulsions. Once the hybrid ratio of beta-CD/SLG NPs reached saturation (1:1), excess beta-CD led to co-emulsifying effect of both the hybrid regions and easily dissociated beta-CD regions. These hybrid beta-CD/SLG NPs showed superiority with great potential in applications to the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.