Nanoencapsulation
Micro/Nano Encapsulation
SwRI scientists developed bone-targeting nanocarriers that release their payload following attachment to the target site. Payload release may occur by natural nanocarrier degradation, application of external stimuli, administration of a complementary factor in schedule, or in response to local biochemical signals.
This scanning transmission electron micrograph shows silver nanoparticles encapsulated in a silica shell.
A variety of nanoencapsulation techniques are practiced at SwRI to match the growing demand for these technologies.
Nanocapsules can be used in combination with other microencapsulation methods to provide new release characteristics. Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) scientists work extensively with a number of nanoencapsulation techniques to produce nanosized particles and capsules that address the high performance needs of many applications.
Nanoencapsulation Techniques
SwRI staff routinely use the following nanoencapsulation techniques:
- Micelles
- Liposomes and polymersomes
- Phase inversion/precipitation
- Solvent evaporation
- Polyelectrolyte complexes
- Layer-by-layer deposition
- Controlled precipitation
- Surfactant-free particle formation
- Templating
- Molecular encapsulation
Nanoencapsulation Applications
- Protein, DNA and RNA stabilization
- Small molecule delivery
- Extending circulatory half-life
- Modifying drug transport
- Clear liquid formulations
- Stable colloid dispersions
- Controlled release
- Targeted delivery
- Triggered release
Characteristics of Nanoencapsulation
- Particle sizes from 10nm
- Tunable colloid properties
- Chemically functionalized surfaces
- Hydrophobic or hydrophilic payloads
- Low payloads
- Organic or inorganic compositions
- High surface area particles
Related Terminology
microencapsulation • nanoencapsulation • release characteristics • nanocapsules • scanning transmission electron micrograph • nanocarriers • nanosized particles • nanoparticles
