Optimization of morphology and geometry of encapsulated Hypophthalmichthys molitrix oil

In the present study, the effect of stirring speed and the type of cross linking agent on the size and formation of microencapsulated Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) oil were investigated. The gelatin/gum Arabic was used for encapsulating and the capsules were prepared by complex coacervation. Microcapsules were analyzed by optical microscopy technique and particle size analyzer. Results suggested the use of glutaraldehyde as the cross-linking agent instead of formaldehyde can caused the Microcapsules become spherical shape, smooth surface with no obvious dents and narrower particle size distribution. The average particle sizes were 537.2 +/- 0.8 mu m, 84.4 +/- 0.5 mu m, 12.98 +/- 0.4 mu m, 8.24 +/- 0.5 mu m, and 4 +/- 0.7 mu m at the homogenization stirring speed of 100, 300, 500, 750 and 1000 rpm respectively. The best conditions of experiment were with 25% glutaraldehyde at 1000 rpm of stirring speed.