Applying layer-by-layer deposition to enhance stability and rheological behavior of emulsions: A review

Emulsion systems are prevalent components in food formulation, and researchers have engaged in enhancing their functionality and stability through the application of interfacial engineering methods. Layer-by-Layer (LBL) deposition represents a technique applicable to the oil-water interface, which have been widely employed for improving the stability of emulsion systems through the formation of thick interfacial membranes and the modification of interactions between droplets. By strategically designing the interface with diverse biopolymers, it is possible to synthesize multilayer emulsions that exhibit specialized functions. In this review, recent advances in the preparation of multilayer emulsions and Pickering emulsions via LBL technology were highlighted, with an emphasis on their stabilization and rheological properties. It discussed some research focused on comparable analysis of binary polymer-stabilized emulsion via different interfacial assembly, with the aim of understanding the influence of interfacial properties on the performance and functionality of these emulsion systems. Finally, their promising applications including forming gel structures, delaying lipid digestion, working as specific delivery systems, and acting as template to design novel materials were also summarized. Through strategic modification of their interfacial properties, it is possible to induce a transformation in the rheological behavior of emulsion systems, from a liquid-like state to solid-like gels. By designing the interface via LBL deposition, the emulsions with thicker and special interfacial membrane could be utilized to formulate food-based emulsions with high stability and functionality. [Display omitted] •Layer-by-layer (LBL) deposition at the oil-water interface enhances the stability of emulsions.•Multilayer-coated droplets can be rationally designed by manipulating experimental parameters.•The interaction between droplets and the interfacial layer affects the rheology of LBL emulsions.•Emulsion gels can be induced by controllable bridging flocculation using LBL deposition.