https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.14316
Emulsion in which the particles of the dispersed phase have diameters in the range from approximately \(\pu{50 nm}\) to \(\pu{1 \upmu m}\).
Notes:
- Mini-emulsions are usually stabilized against diffusion degradation (Ostwald ripening) by a compound insoluble in the continuous phase.
- The dispersed phase contains mixed stabilizers, e.g., an ionic surfactant, such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (n-dodecyl sulfate sodium) and a short aliphatic chain alcohol ("co-surfactant") for colloidal stability, or a water-insoluble compound, such as a hydrocarbon ("co-stabilizer" frequently and improperly called a "co-surfactant") limiting diffusion degradation. Mini-emulsions are usually stable for at least several days.