The properties of nanoemulsions and various methods for their preparation including the high-energy and low-energy emulsification methods and the combined methods are reviewed. Among the high-energy methods, the emphasis is placed on high-energy stirring, ultrasonic emulsification, high-pressure homogenization including micro-fluidics and membrane emulsification. Among the low-energy emulsification methods, the attention is focused on the phase inversion temperature method, the emulsion inversion point method and the spontaneous emulsification. Using a combined method, which includes the high-energy and low-energy emulsification, it is possible to prepare reverse nanoemulsions in highly viscous systems. Main advantages and limitations of different methods of nano-emulsion preparation are discussed and the potential fields of nanoemulsion applications are considered.
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