Preparation of microparticles by micromixers: characterization of oil/water process and prediction of particle size.

Purpose: A descriptive model for microparticle preparation by micromixers was developed to allow prediction of nascent microsphere size and provide a better understanding of a microscale oil/water (O/W) emulsion process.

Methods: Nascent blank microparticles were prepared by an O/W emulsion method using a micromixer. Seven dimensionless groups were derived from the relevant process parameters.