Complex coacervation

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-002324",
  "term": "Complex coacervation",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The phase separation that occurs when two oppositely charged polyelectrolytes are mixed in an aqueous solution, forming a dense, polymer-rich liquid phase called a coacervate and a dilute equilibrium phase. This process is driven by electrostatic interactions between the macromolecules. It is used in microencapsulation and drug delivery systems.",
  "subject": "Physical and Biophysical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "coacervation",
    "colloid"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1972, 31, 577. 'Manual of Symbols and Terminology for Physicochemical Quantities and Units, Appendix II: Definitions, Terminology and Symbols in Colloid and Surface Chemistry' on page 611 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac197231040577)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/complex-coacervation/"
}