Characterization of lipid nanoparticles by differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray and neutron scattering.

Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction play a prominent role in the characterization of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) dispersions. This review shortly outlines the measurement principles of these two techniques and summarizes their applications in the field of nanodispersions of solid lipids. These methods are particularly useful for the characterization of the matrix state, polymorphism and phase behavior of the nanoparticles which may be affected by, for example, the small particle size and the composition of the dispersions. The basics of small angle X-ray and neutron scattering which are also very promising methods for the characterization of LNPs are explained in some more detail. Examples for their use in the area of solid LNPs regarding the evaluation of particle size effects and the formation of superstructures in the nanoparticle dispersions are given. Some technical questions concerning the use of the different characterization techniques in the field of LNP research are also addressed.