The encapsulation of active compounds in polymeric carriers is a widely used technology as it protects or even improves the physical characteristics of the active compound and controls its delivery. The efficiency of each encapsulation system depends mainly on the selective transport of the loaded polymeric particle to the target and on the adapted release profile near the target. The release rate in turns is strongly related to the barrier properties of the polymeric shell especially for the case of diffusion-based mechanisms.
PolymeReEng group works on different aspects of encapsulation processes, starting with in situ polymerization routes, such as interfacial polymerization for polyamide microcapsules and emulsion polymerization for poly(urea formaldehyde) mcrocapsules. On the other hand, solvent-based techniques from preformed PLA materials, such as emulsification-solvent evaporation approach, are combined with solid state polymerization (SSP) used as a post-encapsulation tool to modulate the properties (molecular weight, crystallinity) of the polymeric shell in micro/nanocapsules.
The relevant fields of applications include controlled release, self-healing and self-lubricating systems.
Indicative References
- Mytara A, Chronaki K, Nikitakos V, Papaspyrides C, Beltsios K, Vouyiouka S. Synthesis of polyamide-based microcapsules via interfacial polymerization: Effect of key process parameters. Materials 2021;14(19):5895, doi.
- Zotiadis Ch, Patrikalos I, Loukaidou V, Korres MD, Karantonis A, Vouyiouka S. Self-healing coatings based on poly(urea-formaldehyde) microcapsules: In situ polymerization, capsule properties and application. Prog Org Coatings 2021;161:106475, doi.
- Chronaki K, Korres D, Papaspyrides C, Vouyiouka S. Poly(lactic acid) microcapsules: Tailoring properties via solid state polymerization. Polym Degrad Stab. 2020;179:109283, doi.
- Tzavidi S, Zotiadis C, Porfyris A, Korres D, Vouyiouka S. Epoxy loaded poly(urea-formaldehyde) microcapsules via in situ polymerization designated for self-healing coatings. J Appl Polym Sci 2020;e49323, doi.
- Kamtsikakis A, Kavetsou E, Chronaki K, Kiosidou E, Pavlatou E, Karana A, Papaspyrides C, Detsi A, Karantonis A, Vouyiouka S. Encapsulation of antifouling organic biocides in poly(lactic acid) nanoparticles. Bioengineering 2017;4(4):81, doi.
On-going PhDs
Zotiadis Christos. Design of microcapsule-based polymeric encapsulation systems via in situ polymerization. November 2018-today.
Chronaki Konstantina. Solid state polymerization as a post-treatment tool for polymers upgrade. March 2017-today.
On-going Funded Projects
HYSELFDROPS: Hybrid thermal spray coatings with self-lubricant properties for wear protection of Internal Combustion Engine piston rings, (T2EDK-01883) EPAnEK 2014-2020, 2020-2023. Visit the Project Site (in greek).
