Methodologies Used for the Characterization of Nano- and Microcapsules

The characteristics of nano- and microcapsules are strongly affected by their application and stability. Seven main characteristics are commonly used to evaluate nano- and microcapsules, including particle size, particle size distribution (PSD), zeta potential, morphology, fluidity, encapsulation efficiency, and stability. There are a lot of techniques used to determine these characteristics. The common techniques such as laser diffraction, dynamic light scattering (DLS), acoustic spectroscopy, electrophoretic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) are discussed in this chapter. Each technique has its advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, depending on the properties of the nano- and microcapsule formulations suitable techniques should be chosen before the characterization.