Coacervate

Coacervate is a term used in chemistry and biochemistry to describe a type of liquid-liquid phase separation that occurs in certain polymeric solutions. Coacervates are formed when a mixture of two or more different polymers separates into two liquid phases, one of which is rich in one type of polymer (the coacervate phase) and the other of which is rich in the other types of polymers (the equilibrium phase).

History

The term "coacervate" was first introduced by the Dutch chemist Moseley in 1929. He discovered that when certain proteins and polysaccharides were mixed in aqueous solution, they would separate into two liquid phases, one of which was rich in protein and the other in polysaccharide. This phenomenon was later named "coacervation" by Moseley.

Formation

Coacervates are formed through a process known as phase separation. This occurs when a solution of two or more different polymers is cooled or heated, causing the polymers to separate into two distinct liquid phases. The phase that is rich in one type of polymer is known as the coacervate phase, while the phase that is rich in the other types of polymers is known as the equilibrium phase.

Properties

Coacervates have several unique properties that make them of interest in various fields of research. They are highly viscous, and can encapsulate other molecules, making them useful in the delivery of drugs and other bioactive compounds. They also have the ability to form membranes, which has led to their use in the creation of artificial cells and other biotechnological applications.

Applications

Coacervates have a wide range of applications in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and biotechnology. In the pharmaceutical industry, they are used for the delivery of drugs and other bioactive compounds. In the food industry, they are used as emulsifiers and stabilizers. In the cosmetics industry, they are used in the formulation of various products, including shampoos, conditioners, and skin care products. In biotechnology, they are used in the creation of artificial cells and other biotechnological applications.

See also

• Liquid-liquid phase separation
• Polymer
• Phase separation
• Drug delivery
• Artificial cell