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Annatto Polymeric Microparticles: Natural Product Encapsulation by the Emulsion–Solvent Evaporation Method

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Zaine Teixeira and Nelson Durán

Laboratório de Química Biológica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, BR-13084862 Campinas, SP, Brazil

Sílvia S. Guterres

Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande Sul, BR-90610000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil

J. Chem. Educ., 2008, 85 (7), p 946

DOI: 10.1021/ed085p946

Publication Date (Web): July 1, 2008

Abstract

In this experiment, the extract from annatto seeds was encapsulated in poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) particles by the emulsion–solvent evaporation method. The particles were washed and centrifuged to remove excess stabilizer and then freeze-dried. The main compound of annatto seeds, bixin, has antioxidant properties as well as an orange-red color. These features make annatto extract useful in the cosmetic and food industries. As an oxidant compound, bixin can readily undergo degradation. Therefore, the encapsulation of this natural product is an option to promote higher stability. In addition, a polymeric matrix can promote a sustained release of bixin molecules. The polymer employed, PHBV, is a low-cost and biodegradable material. The emulsion–evaporation method is a technique that can be used to encapsulate lipophilic molecules in a polymeric matrix. The experimental procedure involves many important concepts of colloidal chemistry such as surface tension, emulsion stability, and Ostwald ripening, among others.

Keywords (Audience):

Second-Year Undergraduate

Keywords (Domain):

Analytical Chemistry

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Applications of Chemistry

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This article has been cited by 1 ACS Journal articles (1 most recent appear below).

Molecular Models of Annatto Seed Components
William F. Coleman
Journal of Chemical Education2008 85 (7), 1008
- Molecular Models of Annatto Seed Components
  William F. Coleman
  Journal of Chemical Education2008 85 (7), 1008
  This month's molecular model is of bixin, a pigment that can be isolated from annatto seeds.
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