PMMA@SCNC composite microspheres prepared from pickering emulsion template as curcumin delivery carriers

We demonstrate a facile route to prepare novel composite microspheres based on Pickering emulsion template stabilized by cellulose nanocrystals prepared from sisal fiber (SCNCs). The oil phase of the Pickering emulsions contains hydrophobic drug curcumin and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). Curcumin loaded PMMA composite microspheres coated by SCNCs (Cur-loaded PMMA@SCNC CMs) were obtained after the evaporation of dichloromethane. The structure and morphology of CMs were characterized by polarized optical microscope (POM), confocal laser scanning microscope, scanning electric microscope, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The stability and release kinetics of curcumin were evaluated based on spectrophotometric measurements. Overall, these results show that Cur-loaded PMMA@SCNC CMs display long-term photostability and good encapsulating ability for curcumin. This work offers an effective route of preparing new functional microsphere for the delivery of bioactive compounds. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018 , 135 , 46127.