Mathematical model for encapsulation by interfacial polymerization

A general model for encapsulation by diffusion- and reaction-controlled interfacial polymerization under nonsteady-state boundary conditions has been developed. Special models for either diffusion-controlled or reaction-controlled interfacial polymerization under both steady- and nonsteady-state boundary conditions can be obtained by simplifying the general model. These special models agree with the similar models in the literature. The general model developed is consistent with the experimental data reported in the literature. This work significantly extends existing theories for the encapsulation by interfacial polymerization and provides an important guideline for the effective control of the thickness and porosity of the capsule wall prepared by interfacial polymerization. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.