A CO-FLOW DEVICE TO MAKE A GEL MATRIX WITH EMBEDDED VOIDS OF SUB- MILLIMETER TUNABLE DIMENSIONS

摘要

A co-flow device is provided adapted to generate controlled bubbles in substrates and a 3-D porous matrix/ structure is attained thereof preferably with embedded voids/ porosity wherein the void size and their alignment are controllable. The co-flow device of the present invention is cost-effective device/ system and provides a simple facile method for the formation of said porous matrix such as to the formation of a 3-D porous scaffold preferably a gel like scaffold. The device/ system of the present invention enables a 3-D porous gel like scaffold with enhanced porosity in the absence of any chemical and thermal treatment, whereby the porosity could be accurately controlled that advantageously favours enhanced uptake and release of drug and also finds end use and application in the field of pharmaceuticals, as support to matrix forming cells/ tissue Engineering (Biomedical Implant), as taste and feel enhancer of a salad dressing, ice cream (Food Processing), Lotion, shower gel (Skin Care Products), micro engineered materials (Optical Devices), Encapsulation.