Fabrication of nanoemulsions by high-pressure valve homogenization

High-pressure valve homogenization is a standard technique for nanoemulsion formation in low-viscosity formulations. It is applied extensively in industrial applications and in academic research. This chapter summarizes the scientific-based knowledge in terms of principal mechanisms of operation and practical applicability of the methodology. It is concluded that high-pressure valve homogenization has many advantages in producing nanoemulsions; the technique is mature and allows for continuous production and for production in various scales. However, the technique also has limitations. The thermodynamic efficiency is low, giving rise to high energy cost, and a substantial temperature rises in the product. The high pressures required for nanoemulsion formation have also been reported to cause overprocessing, which results in an additional limitation.