Biomimetic Fabrication of Silica Microcapsules Using Bifunctional Peptides

Abstract

Abstract Microcapsules have a wide range of applications in various fields due to their unique core‐shell structures and high volume‐to‐surface area ratio. However, existing fabrication methods often rely on toxic chemicals or harsh conditions. A new biomimetic approach for fabricating silica microcapsules via biosilicification is developed, using a nature‐inspired bifunctional peptide as both a surfactant and catalyst. This method eliminates the need for high temperatures, extreme pH, and toxic chemicals. The study evaluated the performance of different peptide surfactant formulations for emulsion‐template stabilization and silicification, identifying AM1 as the most effective. Using a microfluidic device, AM1 efficiently generated uniform oil‐in‐water micro‐sized emulsion templates due to its excellent surface activity, and the formation of a metal‐peptide crosslinking network around the droplets. AM1 also induced controlled silicification at the water‐oil interface, producing core‐shell silica microcapsules at neutral pH, thus the formation of microcapsules. Additionally, the microcapsules exhibited excellent stability, controlled degradation profiles, and superior dye retention capabilities. This new method represents a significant advancement in the development of safe, effective, and eco‐friendly microcapsules for diverse applications while providing deeper insights into the mechanisms and properties of bifunctional peptides.

Keywords

• biomimetic
• microcapsule
• microfluidic
• peptide surfactant