Cross-linked Polymer Nanoparticles via Microemulsion Salting-out
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a technique to form stable, isolated nanoparticles from common, physiologically acceptable polymers like polyacrylic/methacrylic acid without using organic solvents, which is not currently achievable with existing methods.
Innovation Solution
An aqueous solution of polymers with 50-70% free carboxylic acid groups is added to an oily phase in the presence of surfactants, forming a water-in-oil microemulsion, and a cross-linking reagent is used to create nanoparticles through a salting-out/phase reversal process, eliminating the need for organic solvents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional nanoparticle preparation methods are used, then nanoparticles can be formed, but organic solvents must be used which are not physiologically acceptable
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical-chemical parameters of the preparation system by using water-in-oil microemulsion instead of organic solvent-based systems. The microemulsion contains water-soluble polymers in an oily continuous phase with surfactants, allowing nanoparticle formation with physiologically acceptable water-based components while maintaining manufacturing effectiveness through controlled phase separation and crosslinking
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces microemulsion as an intermediary system that mediates between the conflicting requirements. The microemulsion acts as a protective medium that allows water-soluble polymers to be processed in an oily environment without requiring harsh organic solvents, enabling physiological acceptability while preserving manufacturing capabilities through controlled phase behavior
2Adaptability or versatility
If water-in-oil microemulsion is used as reactor, then nanoparticles can be formed from water-soluble polymers, but phase separation and salting-out steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention utilizes phase transition as a controlled mechanism for nanoparticle formation and separation. By adding salt to the microemulsion system, controlled phase separation occurs where nanoparticles precipitate out while the microemulsion phase separates, enabling easy recovery. This phase transition approach allows versatile polymer compatibility while managing process complexity through thermodynamically driven separation
Solution Approach 2:
The microemulsion system provides self-service functionality where the addition of salt automatically triggers phase separation and nanoparticle recovery without requiring additional complex separation equipment. The system self-organizes into distinct phases based on salt concentration, with nanoparticles forming in the aqueous phase that separates from the oily microemulsion phase, simplifying the overall process
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables the formation of well-defined nanoparticles with controlled size and drug release properties, improving the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of drugs like chloramphenicol while reducing adverse effects.
Implementation Method 1
when an aqueous solution of certain polymers having 50-70% free carboxylic acid groups or free amino groups, was added, in the presence of certain surfactants, to an oily phase, a water-in-oil microemulsion formed
Implementation Method 2
in the presence of certain surfactants, to an oily phase, a water-in-oil microemulsion formed
Implementation Method 3
a cross-linking reagent is used to create nanoparticles through a salting-out/phase reversal process
Implementation Method 4
combining the microemulsion with a salting-out/phase reversal process
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a nano-sized particle comprising a cross-linked polymer, wherein the polymer is selected from the group consisting of a polyacrylic acid homopolymer; polymethacrylic acid homopolymer; poly(alkylcyanoacrylate) polymer; a copolymer comprising at least two monomers selected from acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, hydroxyethyl acrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, and alkyl cyanoacrylate/cyanoacrylic acid monomers; carboxymethyl cellulose; alginic acid polymer, polylactic-polyglycolic acid (PLGA), and xanthan gum; and wherein said polymer is cross-linked with a metal ion. A process for preparing such particles is also provided.