Development of a novel colloidal system enhancing the dispersibility of tocopherol nanoparticles in a nanoscale nutraceutical delivery system

The aim of this study is to develop a new binary emulsifier system to be used as a surface-active agent in a nanometric delivery system. The effect of the interaction between gum arabic (GA) and Tween 80 (T80) at different ratios on the physical stability (droplet size diameter (d3.2) and interfacial tension (IFT)) of tocopherol-based nanoemulsions derived from cumin oil was investigated. The physical parameter measurements showed that when T80 interacted with GA at a ratio of 0.75:0.25 (v/v) in the aqueous phase, it synergistically reduced the d3.2 and IFT to 106 nm and 11.3 mN/m, respectively. A subsequent stability study revealed its stabilizing mechanism, which was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis and showed good stability in various conditions. It is believed that the interaction in the binary emulsifier system was formed between the positive amino acids of GA and the polar head of T80 through electrostatic bonds, which were strengthened by the glucuronic acid carboxylic groups and hydrophilic carbohydrate blocks attached to the GA chain that protrude into solution. Meanwhile, there was a competitive adsorption of the hydrophobic groups of both emulsifiers on the interface, creating a thick viscoelastic film at the oil-water interface with a strong electro-steric barrier. This research is significant because it provides new insights into the development of industrial applications through the use of tocopherol nanoemulsions.