Development of a Microfluidic Device to Encapsulate Isocyanate for Autoreactive and Ecological Adhesives

Abstract

Present study was performed to explore a microfluidic approach for production of microcapsules (MCs) with polyurethane/polyurea shells containing isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) in the core, for adhesive formulations. The MCs were produced, in a continuous mode, by a system involving a microfluidic device, containing a T-junction where is originated a monodisperse oil-in-water emulsion, followed by interfacial polymerization at the emulsion droplets surface. The resulting MCs are intended to be added to an adhesive base, leading to an autoreactive and ecological monocomponent adhesive, with high potential application. The MCs' morphology and size distribution were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the results obtained by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed a successful encapsulation of IPDI. The advances achieved in the current study will be a potential contribution to the innovation and development of new production methods and eco-friendly products.