Stabilized All-Aqueous Emulsions and Methods of Making and Using Thereof

Abstract

Methods for preparing all-aqueous emulsions, including stable emulsions or emulsions having high viscosity and/or ultra-low interfacial tension are described. The method includes mixing, combining, or contacting a first electrically charged phase containing a first solute (e.g., dispersed phase) with at least a second phase containing a second solute (e.g., continuous phase). The solutes are incompatible with each other. The electrostatic forces between the two phases induce the formation of droplets of a dispersed phase in a continuous phase. The dispersed and continuous phases contain oppositely charged molecules, such as surfactants or other macromolecules and colloids which stabilize the drops of the dispersed phase. Complex coacervation of the oppositely charged molecules or colloids at the interface of the two aqueous phases results in formation of a membrane or barrier which prevents coalescence or aggregation of the droplets. The membrane also prevents leakage of any encapsulated agents from the droplets.