Non-reciprocal coalescence-breakup dynamics in flowing concentrated emulsions.

Summary

This mechanistic study identifies non-reciprocal coalescence–breakup behavior in dense, flowing emulsions and underscores how high-shear, elastic, and steric interactions jointly determine droplet morphology and bulk rheology. The insights address a core challenge in producing stable emulsions central to cosmetic formulation and processing.

Key Findings

• Reveals non-reciprocal coalescence–breakup dynamics in dense, stabilized emulsions under flow.
• Shows that the interplay of high-shear, elastic, and steric interactions governs both droplet-scale morphology and macroscopic emulsion rheology.
• Highlights changes in emulsion behavior around a critical volume fraction, informing formulation windows.

Clinical Implications

While not directly clinical, improved control of emulsion stability can enhance safety, consistency, and performance of topical cosmetic products used by patients and consumers.

Limitations

• Specific surfactant chemistries and stabilizer types are not detailed here, which may affect generalizability to cosmetic formulations.
• Translation to polydisperse, multicomponent commercial emulsions and scale-up remains to be empirically validated.

Future Directions

Test findings in cosmetic-grade, multicomponent emulsions; couple in-line rheology with imaging; and develop predictive models to guide process parameters across shear regimes.