Synthesis of Poly(ϵ-caprolactone) Microreactors from Freeze-Dried Microspheres

Abstract

Poly(ϵ-caprolactone) microreactors were prepared by micro-volcanic rupture of freeze dried microspheres. Effects of three synthesis parameters viz polymer concentration, emulsifier concentration and stirring speed on size and morphology of microreactors were examined. Average diameter of microreactors showed substantial increase with increasing polymer concentration and reduced size with increasing polyvinyl alcohol (emulsifier) concentration and stirring speed, respectively. These miniaturised structures have potential applications in immunodiagnosis and drug delivery.

Keywords:

• Freeze drying
• Microreactors
• Microvolcanic rupture
• PCL

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

This work was supported by Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (Project No. NWP0035), Government of India. Authors are thankful to Dr. Akashdeep, Dr. Harsimran Kaur, Mr. Parveen Kumar, Mr. Girish Mohanta, Mr. Suresh Kumar, and Ms. Shweta Arora for their valuable guidance and suggestions. Author Mr. Deepak Kukkar thanks University Grants Commission (UGC), Government of India for providing senior research fellowship.