Advances in Research on Polyglycerol Fatty Acid Esters: Molecular Design, Nanoarchitectonics, and Advanced Applications
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: The polyglycerol fatty acid esters (PGFEs) are a type of bio-based nonionic surfactant with excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, emulsifying, wetting, antibacterial and other properties, widely used in food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and other fields. Due to the diversity of polymerization degree, esterification degree of glycerol, and fatty acid chains (carbon chain length, straight and branched, saturated and unsaturated), the molecular structure of PGFEs can be regulated and the types of PGFEs are diverse. Therefore, it is crucial to explore their structure-property relationship and make the correct choice in practical applications. In this paper the influence of the molecular structure of PGFEs on their quality index, surface activity, self-assembly behavior was systematically reviewed. The emulsification, wetting, foam and antibacterial properties are introduced in detail. Furthermore, the application in regulating oil crystallization and active ingredient embedding is analyzed. By revealing the relationship between structure and function, it provides direction for the synthesis and application of PGFEs.
Source: Journal of Oleo Science
DOI: 10.5650/jos.ess26112
Authors: Jiapeng Li, Mingmin Guo, Fu Han
Institution: Beijing Technology and Business University
Language: English
Subfield: Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $301
OpenAlex ID: W7220709416