Formulating microemulsions (ME)

MEs are water-based formulations with a very small emulsified droplet size; this makes the formulation transparent.

They are thermodynamically stable over a wide temperature range due to this very fine droplet size, usually between 0.01 and 0.05 μm. Therefore, in contrast to other emulsion systems, where the oil droplets can slowly coalesce, causing phase separation, in ME formulations, this does not occur.

ME formulation diagram

Benefits

Thermodynamically stable, therefore have increased shelf life
Low solvent level
Easy to transport and store
High flash point and safe handling
Improved bioefficacy due to the solubilisation of the active ingredient in the microdroplets
Low viscosity; so easier to handle

Limitations

Low active ingredient content
Require high surfactant level to form

The Formulator's Toolbox (Full Version)

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Products recommended for ME

Anionic surfactants are required in an ME formulation to form a spontaneous emulsion. Due to the overall charge on an anionic emulsifier it provides additional electrostatic stabilisation.

Featured

Atlox™ 4838B

An oil-soluble anionic emulsifier for improved stability and blooming of formulations upon dilution. Commonly used as part of a triangle screen formulation approach.

Atlox™ 4817B

Anionic surfactant for EC and ME formulations

Featured

Atlox Metasperse™ 500L

A modified styrene acrylic polymeric aqueous dispersant in liquid form which exhibits excellent hard water tolerance.

Zephrym™ 3300B

Anionic surfactant for EC and ME formulations

Other application areas

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The Formulator's Toolbox

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Formulating microemulsions (ME)

Benefits

Limitations

The Formulator's Toolbox (Full Version)

Products recommended for ME

Atlox™ 4838B

Atlox™ 4817B

Atlox Metasperse™ 500L

Zephrym™ 3300B

Tween™ 22

Tween™ 23

Tween™ 24

Atlox™ 4916

Atlox™ 4914

Atlas™ G-5000

Atlas™ G-5002L

Atlas™ G-5004 LD

Atlox™ AL-3382

Multitrope™ 1214

Atlox™ Solvall™ BDE-1

Seatons refined linseed oil

Seatons refined rapeseed oil

Other application areas

Formulation finder

The Formulator's Toolbox