Microfluidic production of hydrogel-shelled microcapsules and their applications

초록

Hydrogel shells enable precise compartmentalization of aqueous cores while regulating transmembrane molecular transport based on size-and charge-selectivity. Recent advances in droplet microfluidics have enabled the production of monodisperse multiple-emulsion droplets, which serve as ideal templates for hydrogel shell fabrication. This mini-review highlights recent progress in microfluidic emulsion templating for hydrogel shell production and explores optimal design strategies for diverse applications. Hydrogel shells are fabricated using various types of emulsions, with formation mechanisms and material selection tailored to each type. Their applications span drug and cell microcarriers, microreactors, and microsensors, where the composition, structure, and crosslinking density are precisely engineered.

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