Inverse nanoemulsions in particle fabrication

Abstract

Nanoemulsions have emerged as highly versatile platforms for the synthesis of functional nanoparticles, offering nanoconfined environments that enable fine control over particle size, composition, and morphology. While traditionally used in fields such as food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, their role in materials chemistry—particularly in the fabrication of organic, inorganic, and hybrid nanoparticles—has seen significant expansion in recent years. This review focuses specifically on inverse nanoemulsions, in which polar droplets are dispersed in an apolar continuous phase, as media for the controlled formation of nanostructured materials. We present an overview of recent developments from the last few years, organized around three main synthetic strategies: (i) the incorporation of all precursors into a single emulsion, (ii) the external addition of a reactive component to an existing emulsion of a precursor, and (iii) the fusion of two distinct emulsions, each carrying complementary reactants. These methodologies are discussed in terms of their mechanisms, advantages, and applicability to diverse material systems, with particular emphasis on advanced functional materials.