Lignin–Quercetin Hybrid Colloidal Particles as Sustainable Pickering Emulsifiers: A Bio-Based and Functional Approach

TL;DR

Researchers created sustainable colloidal particles from lignin and quercetin that can stabilize emulsions, offering a new approach for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Contribution

The first development of lignin–quercetin hybrid colloidal particles as functional Pickering emulsifiers.

Findings

CLQP-50 particles effectively stabilized oil-in-water emulsions with a 60/40 ratio.

The particles showed high physical stability and shear-thinning behavior.

Confocal microscopy and contact angle measurements confirmed their emulsifying properties.

Abstract

Lignin, the second-most-abundant polymer on Earth, has attracted attention for its value-added applications. Colloidal lignin particles can overcome handling and compatibility issues, offer antioxidant, antimicrobial, and UV-protective properties, and serve as Pickering stabilizers. Plant extracts rich in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and flavonoids (e.g., quercetin), can further enhance lignin-based formulations. In this context, colloidal lignin–quercetin particles (CLQPs) were produced for the first time via antisolvent precipitation and used as Pickering emulsion stabilizers. CLQP dispersions (30 g/L) were prepared by solubilizing lignin and quercetin in 80% (v/v) aqueous acetone solution, followed by precipitation with a pH 8 buffer. A quercetin content of 50% (w/w) (CLQP-50) resulted in predominantly round-shaped lignin–quercetin particles (<1 µm) with a small fraction of quercetin crystals. Both structures contributed to emulsion stabilization, as evidenced by confocal microscopy, a three-phase contact angle of 91.6 ± 0.1°, and a zeta potential of −52.8 ± 2.7 mV. CLQP-50 successfully stabilized Pickering emulsions at a 60/40 oil/water ratio, showing high physical stability (stability index 0.01) and shear-thinning behavior with gel-like consistency. These findings demonstrate the pioneering development of lignin–quercetin hybrid colloidal particles as sustainable and functional Pickering stabilizers, opening new opportunities for advanced cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.

Figures