Abstract

This research aimed to determine the effect of stirring speed on the size and structural characteristics of microcapsule particles and to evaluate the morphological and physical characteristics of composite microcapsules using different combinations of matrix materials. The technique used in this research was modified suspension cross-linking. The results showed that stirring speed significantly influenced the size and structural characteristics of microcapsules. Higher stirring speed (1300 rpm) correlated with smaller sizes, increased particle density and thicker matrix layer. Combinations of matrix materials (composites) exhibited similar morphological characteristics but differed in their physical properties. Notably, experiments using alginate and gelatin as composite materials showed best results compared to other combinations. Interestingly, the use of cost-effective ingredients such as tapioca-egg yielded the most favorable results as larvae feed. The microcapsules produced through modifications in manufacturing technique resulted in droplet sizes tailored to the mouth openings of fish larvae