Chitosan–Carboxymethylcellulose-Based Polyelectrolyte Complexation and Microcapsule Shell Formulation

Chitosan (CH)–carboxymethyl cellulose sodium salt (NaCMC) microcapsules containing paraffin oil were synthesized by complex formation, and crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (GTA). The electrostatic deposition of NaCMC onto the CH-coated paraffin oil emulsion droplets was demonstrated by zeta potential and optical microscopy. The optimal process conditions were identified in terms of pH of the aqueous solution (5.5) and CH/NaCMC mass ratio (1:1). Encapsulation of paraffin oil and microcapsule morphology were analyzed by ATR-FTIR and SEM, respectively. The effect of GTA crosslinking on paraffin oil latent heat was investigated by DSC and combined with the values of encapsulation efficiency and core content, supporting the compact shell formation.