EP3743201A1

EP3743201A1 - Device for producing a dispersion, associated assembly and associated method

Info

Publication number: EP3743201A1
Application number: EP19700971.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Yan Eric PAFUMI; Mathieu Goutayer
Original assignee: Capsum SAS
Current assignee: Capsum SAS
Priority date: 2018-01-24
Filing date: 2019-01-24
Publication date: 2020-12-02
Also published as: FR3077011B1; WO2019145424A1; US20210039059A1; KR20200108473A; CN112203754A; FR3077011A1; US12201952B2; KR102578109B1; CN112203754B

Abstract

Device (10) for producing a dispersion (12), associated assembly and associated method. The invention relates to a device (10) for producing a dispersion (12) comprising elements (14) comprising a first phase (16), which are dispersed in a continuous phase (18) immiscible with the first phase (16). The device (10) comprises at least one production nozzle (20, 34) comprising – a first duct (30) intended to convey a first fluid (36) that forms the first phase (16), – a second duct (100, 32), coaxially surrounding part of the first duct (30), able to convey a second fluid (102, 40) that forms the continuous phase (18), and – an outlet (34). The nozzle (20, 34) is able to form, at the outlet (34), a fluid jet (22) comprising the first fluid (36) and the second fluid (102, 40) surrounding the first fluid (36). The production device (10) additionally comprises a fragmentation device (24) for mechanically breaking up the fluid jet (22), positioned in the vicinity of the outlet (34) of the nozzle (20, 34), the fragmentation device (24) comprising a mobile part (50) intended to break up the fluid jet (22) mechanically into a plurality of elements.

Description

Apparatus for producing a dispersion, together and method

The present invention relates to a device for producing a dispersion. The invention also relates to a production assembly comprising at least one such device and a method for producing a dispersion using such a device.

The Applicant manufactures and markets macroscopic dispersions and comprising elements visible to the naked eye, for example of diameter between 100 pm and 1500 pm, kinetically stable and optionally monodisperse.

The production of a dispersion comprising elements dispersed in a continuous phase, for example of macroemulsions, generally consists in mixing at least two phases that are substantially immiscible with one another, either directly in the production vessel or in a reactor. online.

Nevertheless, such methods make it very difficult, if not impossible, to obtain a homogeneous distribution of the dispersed elements in the continuous phase. It is also difficult to obtain concentrations in large dispersed phase, as well as to obtain macroscopic dispersed elements, in particular of millimeter or greater size, and / or of homogeneous size. These difficulties are further increased when one of the phases has a high viscosity, or when it is desired to obtain a high rate of production.

It is known to produce the elements of the dispersion in milli- or micro-fluidic devices, such as that described in WO2012 / 120043, in order to precisely control their dimensions and the homogeneity of their distribution in the continuous phase. These devices can be further improved. Indeed, they do not easily make it possible to obtain high production rates by their hydrodynamic operation, the separation of the elements following a drip type process (or dripping in English).

Since the fluids must be able to flow in channels of very small section, these milli-or microfluidic devices also impose limits in terms of viscosity or at least adaptations at the level of the raw materials and / or devices. These disadvantages de facto limit the galenical and / or the sensoriality of the dispersions that can be obtained and / or make the dispersion production process more complex.

An object of the invention is to provide a production device making it possible to easily obtain, with high production yields, dispersed elements, in particular macroscopic and, where appropriate, monodisperse, and / or in concentration. high, even in the presence of at least one phase of high viscosity, while easily controlling the effects of the change of scale of production.

Thus, the invention relates to a production device of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the dispersion comprising elements comprising at least a first phase, dispersed in a continuous phase substantially immiscible with the first phase, the device comprising:

at least one production nozzle comprising at least a first conduit intended to convey a first fluid suitable for constituting the first phase, a second conduit surrounding, preferably coaxially, at least a part of the first conduit, the second conduit being clean to convey a second fluid suitable for constituting the continuous phase, and an outlet, the nozzle being adapted to form at the outlet a fluid jet comprising at least the first fluid and the second fluid surrounding the first fluid, preferably coaxially, and

at least one device for mechanical fragmentation of the fluid jet, disposed in the vicinity of the exit of the nozzle, the fragmentation device comprising a part movable with respect to the nozzle, intended to mechanically break up the fluid jet into a plurality of elements comprising the first fluid dispersed in the continuous phase.

According to particular embodiments, the device according to the invention has one or more of the following characteristics, taken separately or in any technically possible combination:

the mechanical fragmentation device is mobile with respect to the nozzle;

the production nozzle comprises a third duct of which at least a portion is surrounded, preferably in a coaxial manner, by at least a portion of the first duct, the third duct being adapted to convey a third fluid substantially immiscible with the first fluid, the fluid jet comprising the third fluid, the first fluid surrounding the third fluid, preferably coaxially, and the second fluid surrounding the first fluid, preferably coaxially, each element dispersed in the continuous phase comprising an outer core formed by the first fluid, and at least one, preferably a single, inner core formed by the third fluid disposed in the outer core;

each element comprises a bark (or membrane), preferably formed of a coacervate layer, at the interface between the first phase and the continuous phase, and optionally also at the interface between the first phase and the third fluid; when this third fluid is present;

the first phase of the elements forms a bark formed of a layer comprising at least one gelling agent, in particular chosen from a gelling agent thermosensitive solid at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, a polysaccharide, in particular a multivalent ion reactive polyelectrolyte, between the third fluid and the continuous phase;

the device comprises at least one independent conduit intended to convey to the dispersion an additional fluid comprising at least one solution for increasing the viscosity of the continuous phase;

- The device comprises at least one heating device for heating at least the first fluid, and optionally the second fluid and / or the third fluid, at least in the production nozzle;

the device comprises at least one cooling device capable of cooling the dispersion, in particular when the device comprises at least one heating device as described above;

the mobile part of the fragmentation device comprises a rotary or oscillating scraper provided with successive openings;

- The successive openings are adapted to pass successively opposite the nozzle during the displacement of the movable portion relative to the nozzle;

the elements have a substantially spherical shape;

at least 60%, even at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, and better still at least 90% of the elements have an average diameter greater than or equal to 10 μm, preferably greater than or equal to 50 μm, in particular greater than or equal to 100 μm, even greater than or equal to 200 μm, better still greater than or equal to 300 μm, in particular greater than or equal to 400 μm, and better still greater than or equal to 500 μm;

the first fluid and / or the second fluid and / or, when present, the third fluid, is not a gas; and

- The device further comprises at least one mixer capable of exerting on the elements a homogeneous controlled shear, preferably said mixer comprising at least one cell formed by at least:

- two coaxial rotary cylinders;

- two parallel rotating discs; or

- two parallel oscillating plates.

According to a particular embodiment, in order to improve the monodispersity of the elements, the elements are subjected to a step of refining in size during which they are subjected to a shear capable of fragmenting them into elements of homogeneous and controlled diameters. Preferably, the refining step is carried out in a high-shear Couette type cell, according to a process described in document EP3144058. The invention also relates to a production assembly of a dispersion comprising a plurality of production devices as described above, and a fluid distribution system capable of supplying each device with at least first fluid and second fluid and optionally in the third fluid, preferably the outlets of the nozzles opening in the same chamber.

According to particular embodiments, the assembly according to the invention has one or more of the following characteristics, taken separately or in any combination technically possible:

- The devices are arranged in at least one centripetal circle, the nozzle outlets being oriented towards a center of the circle;

the devices are arranged in at least one centrifugal circle, the nozzle outlets being oriented towards the outside of the circle;

- The devices are arranged in at least one circle, the nozzle outlets being parallel to each other;

the fragmentation device is common to all the devices;

the moving part of the common fragmentation device comprises a rotary or oscillating scraper arranged to traverse an inner contour of the centripetal circle;

the moving part of the common fragmentation device comprises a rotary or oscillating scraper arranged to traverse an outer contour of the centrifugal circle; and

- The movable part of the common fragmentation device comprises a rotary wiper or oscillating arranged to come opposite the outputs of the nozzles parallel to each other.

The invention further relates to a method of manufacturing a dispersion comprising elements comprising at least a first phase dispersed in a continuous phase, the process comprising at least the following steps:

- Providing a production device as described above and at least a first fluid and a second fluid substantially immiscible with the first fluid;

flows of the first fluid in the first conduit, the first fluid forming the first phase and the second fluid in the second conduit surrounding, preferably coaxially, the first conduit;

- Formation of a fluid jet at the outlet of the nozzle, the fluid jet, formed by coextrusion, comprising at least the first fluid and the second fluid surrounding the first fluid, preferably coaxially;

moving the moving part of the fragmentation device to fragment the fluid jet and obtain elements comprising at least the first fluid dispersed in the second fluid; and - recovery of the dispersion.

According to particular embodiments, the method according to the invention has one or more of the following characteristics, taken separately or in any technically possible combination:

the method comprises a step of flowing a third fluid in a third conduit, at least a portion of the third conduit being surrounded, preferably coaxially, by at least a portion of the first conduit, the fluid jet also comprising the third fluid, the first fluid surrounding the third fluid, preferably coaxially; and

the method comprises a step of refining in size, during which a controlled and homogeneous shear is applied to the elements in a mixer, the mixer being in particular of the Couette type, comprising two coaxial cylinders, an outer cylinder of internal radius R ₀ and an inner cylinder of outer radius R ,, the outer cylinder being fixed and the inner cylinder rotating with an angular velocity w.

According to a particular embodiment, the phases of the dispersion form a macroscopically inhomogeneous mixture. This is particularly the case when the scattered elements have a macroscopic character.

In the context of the present invention, the abovementioned dispersions may be denoted by the term "emulsions".

According to one embodiment, the dispersions according to the invention do not comprise a surfactant.

The invention finally relates to a composition, in particular a cosmetic composition, comprising at least one dispersion as described above and, optionally, a physiologically acceptable medium.

The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings, among which:

- Figure 1 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a production device according to the invention;

- Figure 2 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a second production device according to the invention;

- Figure 3 is a perspective view of a production assembly according to the invention comprising a plurality of production devices;

- Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 1 of a production device according to the invention; FIG. 5 is a view of an example of dispersion according to the invention in which the elements of the dispersion are in the form of drops formed by a device according to the invention;

- Figure 6 is a view of an example of dispersion according to the invention wherein the elements of the dispersion are in the form of capsules formed by a device according to the invention.

Temperature and pressure

Unless otherwise indicated, in what follows, it is considered that it is at ambient temperature (for example T = 25 ° C. ± 2 ° C.) and atmospheric pressure (760 mmHg, ie 1.013 × 10 ⁵ Pa or 1013 mbar).

Viscosity

The viscosity of the dispersions according to the invention can vary significantly, which makes it possible to obtain varied textures.

According to one embodiment, each of the phases forming a dispersion according to the invention and / or the dispersion according to the invention has a viscosity ranging from 1 mPa.s to 500,000 mPa.s, preferably from 10 mPa.s to 300. 000 mPa.s, more preferably from 400 mPa.s to 200,000 mPa.s, in particular from 1,000 mPa.s to 100,000 mPa.s, and more particularly from 2,000 mPa.s to 150,000 mPa.s, or even from 2,000 mPa.s to 10,000 mPa.s as measured at 25 ° C.

The viscosity is measured at room temperature and at ambient pressure, by the method described in WO2016 / 096995.

Referring to Figure 1, there is described a device 10 for producing a dispersion 12 according to a first embodiment of the invention, the dispersion 12 comprising elements 14 comprising a first phase 16, dispersed in a continuous phase 18.

Dispersion 12

The dispersion 12 is direct (ie oil-in-water type) or inverse (ie water-in-oil type). The dispersion 12 obtained is kinetically stable. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "kinetically stable" is understood to mean, for example, that the dispersion is stable for at least two weeks, or even one month, preferably three months, and better still six months. By "stable" it is meant that the dispersion retains a satisfactory visual homogeneity, that is to say without any dephasing or cremation perceptible to the eye, the absence of opacification of the continuous phase, the absence of aggregation elements between them, and in particular the absence of Oswald coalescence or ripening elements between them, and the absence of leakage of materials from the dispersed phase to the continuous phase, or vice versa.

The first phase 16 is aqueous or oily, preferably oily, and immiscible with the continuous phase 18 at room temperature and at atmospheric pressure.

By "immiscible" or "substantially immiscible" in the sense of the present invention is meant the solubility of a first phase (or fluid) in a second phase (or fluid) which, at room temperature and at atmospheric pressure, is advantageously less than or equal to 5% by mass.

The continuous phase 18 is oily or aqueous, preferably aqueous, and in particular of a different nature from the first phase 16.

As oils that can be used in the present invention, mention may be made of those described in the patent application filed under No. FR1759183, the contents of which are incorporated by reference.

The elements 14 are advantageously substantially spherical and preferably macroscopic.

Preferably, at least 60%, even at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, and better still at least 90%, of the elements 14 have an average diameter D greater than or equal to 10 μm, preferably greater than or equal to 50 μm. pm, in particular greater than or equal to 100 μm, even greater than or equal to 200 μm, and better still greater than or equal to 300 μm, in particular greater than or equal to 400 μm, and better still greater than or equal to 500 μm. In particular, at least 60%, even at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, and more preferably at least 90%, of the elements 14 have an average diameter D of between 10 μm and 3000 μm, in particular between 50 μm and 2500 μm, preferably between 100 μm and 2000 μm, in particular between 200 μm and 1500 μm, and even between 500 μm and 1000 μm.

Preferably, the elements 14 having a diameter greater than or equal to 100 μm, and represent a volume greater than or equal to 60%, even greater than or equal to 70%, preferably greater than or equal to 80%, and better still greater than or equal to 90% of the total volume of the dispersed phase

The elements 14 advantageously have an apparent monodispersity (that is, they are perceived in the eye as identical spheres in diameter). By "apparent monodispersity" is meant, for a given population of elements 14, a coefficient of variation Cv of the average diameter D of the elements 14 of between 10% and 30%, and better still between 15% and 20%.

The average diameter D of the elements 14 is for example measured by analysis of a photograph of a batch consisting of N elements 14, by an image processing software. Typically, according to this method, the diameter is measured in pixels, then reported in pm, depending on the size of the container containing the elements 14 of the dispersion 12.

Preferably, the value of N is chosen greater than or equal to 30, so that this analysis reflects in a statistically significant manner the diameter distribution of the elements of said emulsion. N is advantageously greater than or equal to 100, especially in the case where the dispersion is polydispersed.

The diameter Di of each element 14 is measured, and the average diameter is obtained.

D by calculating the arithmetic mean of these values:

From these values Di, it is also possible to obtain the standard deviation s of the diameters of the elements 14 of the dispersion 12:

The standard deviation s of a dispersion reflects the distribution of the diameters Di of the elements

14 of the dispersion 12 around the average diameter D.

By knowing the average diameter D and the standard deviation ε of a Gaussian dispersion, it can be determined that 95.4% of the population of elements 14 are found in the interval.

D + 2s] _and q _ue | ' _found 68.2% of the population in

To characterize the monodispersity of the dispersion 12 according to this embodiment of the invention, the coefficient of variation can be calculated:

This parameter reflects the distribution of the diameters of the elements 14 as a function of the average diameter thereof. The coefficient of variation Cv of the diameters of the elements 14 is advantageously less than 30%, preferably less than 20%, and better still less than 10%, or even less than 5%.

Alternatively, the monodispersity can be demonstrated by placing a sample of a dispersion according to the invention in a bottle with a constant circular section. A gentle stirring by rotating a quarter of a turn for half a second around the axis of symmetry through the bottle, followed by a rest of half a second is performed, before repeating the operation in the opposite direction, and this four times in a row.

The elements of the dispersed phase are organized in a crystalline form when they are monodispersed. Thus, they have a stack in a repeating pattern in three dimensions. It is then possible to observe, a regular stack which indicates a good monodispersity, an irregular stack reflecting the polydispersity of the dispersion 12. Where appropriate, those skilled in the art will be able to adjust the viscosity of the phases, in particular of the continuous phase 18, for a satisfactory implementation of this method of characterization of monodispersity.

The dispersion 12 may advantageously comprise a fraction greater than or equal to 2%, preferably greater than or equal to 5%, better still greater than or equal to 10%, in particular greater than or equal to 15%, better still greater than or equal to 20%, and in particular greater than or equal to 30% by weight of first phase 16, in particular of oil (s), relative to the total weight of dispersion 12. In contrast, with a prior art drip process, the The maximum fraction in dispersed phase, in particular in oil (s), achievable in direct dispersion is about 15%.

Thus, the dispersion 12 may advantageously comprise a fraction of between 15% and 60%, preferably between 20% and 50%, in particular between 30% and 40% by weight of first phase 16, in particular of oil (s). ), relative to the total weight of the dispersion 12.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, each element 14 of the dispersion is formed of a first phase drop 16.

According to an alternative embodiment, each element 14 of the dispersion may comprise at least one bark 16A. Those skilled in the art will be able to make the adaptations and / or adjustments necessary to ensure the formation of this bark 16A, taking into account, in particular, the particularities of the device according to the invention.

For example, the bark 16A may be formed of a coacervate layer at the interface between the first phase 16 and the continuous phase 18. This coacervate layer is advantageously formed by interaction between at least one first polymer precursor of the coacervate initially contained in the first phase 16 and at least a second precursor polymer coacervate initially contained in the continuous phase 18. Thus, the first polymer is a hydrophilic polymer and the second precursor polymer is a lipophilic polymer, or vice versa. A "first coacervate precursor polymer / second coacervate precursor polymer" pair is especially a "carbomer / amodimethicone" pair. Examples of elements of this type are described in WO2012120043, the contents of which are incorporated by reference.

A device according to the invention is furthermore advantageous in that it makes it possible to form a dispersion 12 while avoiding the use of an intermediate liquid generally used to delay the migration of one of the two polymers involved. in the coacervation reaction to the interface between the dispersed phase 16 and the continuous phase 18 and without clogging of the nozzle.

According to a second variant (not shown), each element 14 of the dispersion 12 comprises at least one first gelling agent in the first phase 16 and optionally at least one second gelling agent in the continuous phase 18. In other words, the elements 14 of the dispersion 12 according to this second variant has improved kinetic stability and mechanical strength despite the absence of bark. The first phase 16 and / or the continuous phase 18 are, for example, gelled. Examples of hydrophilic or lipophilic gelling agents are described in the application filed under No. FR1752208, the contents of which are incorporated by reference.

According to a third variant embodiment (not shown), the dispersion 12 comprises at least one first gelling agent in the first phase 16 and optionally at least one second gelling agent in the continuous phase 18, each element 14 further comprising a bark, in particular particular formed of a coacervate layer at the interface between the first phase 16 and the continuous phase 18 by interaction between at least a first polymer initially contained in the first phase 16 and at least a second polymer initially contained in the continuous phase 18 This variant is advantageous in that it leads to an even better kinetic stability of the dispersion 12.

Production device 10

The device 10 comprises a production nozzle 20 capable of forming a fluid jet 22, a mechanical fragmentation device 24 intended to mechanically fragment the fluid jet 22 and preferably a chamber 26 for containing and evacuating the dispersion 12.

The nozzle 20 comprises at least a first duct 30, a second duct 32 and an outlet 34, defined in a frame 35 carrying the nozzle 20.

By the expression "fluid jet" is meant the flow of several fluids in laminar flow in a common direction, and in particular a flow in which the fluids flow in forming successive cylindrical layers, preferably concentric, arranged one around the other.

The first duct 30 and the second duct 32 each comprise a succession of at least one substantially cylindrical duct segment in the frame 35.

The first conduit 30 is intended to convey a first fluid 36, suitable for forming the first phase 16, from a first fluid first supply channel 36. The first conduit 30 opens into the second conduit 32, for example at half the length of the second duct 32. The segment of the first duct 30 opening into the second duct extends along a flow axis X-X '.

According to a particular embodiment (not shown), the second conduit 32 and the first conduit 30 open at the outlet 34 of the nozzle 20 on the same plane.

The second duct 32 is intended to convey a second fluid 40, suitable for forming the continuous phase 18, from a second channel 42 for supplying second fluid 40. The second duct 32 opens at the outlet 34 of the nozzle 20, and surrounds , preferably coaxially, a portion of the first conduit 30 over a portion of the length of the second conduit 32.

The segment of the second conduit 32 opening at the outlet 34 extends along the flow axis X-X '.

The nozzle 20 is thus able to form the fluid jet 22 by coextrusion at the outlet 34, the second fluid 40 surrounding, preferably coaxially, the first fluid 36 in the fluid jet 22. The fluid jet 22 flows in the vicinity of the outlet 34 in a direction substantially parallel to the flow axis X-X '.

Those skilled in the art will be able to make the necessary adjustments, in particular at the flow rates in first fluid 36 and in second fluid 40 to ensure the formation of the fluid jet at outlet 34 of nozzle 20.

The outlet 34 is an opening in the frame 35, preferably opening into the chamber 26. The opening 34 is part of an opening plane substantially orthogonal to the flow axis X-X '. The mechanical fragmentation device 24 is disposed in the vicinity of the outlet 34 of the nozzle 20, and comprises a movable part 50 with respect to the nozzle 34 and an actuator (not shown) intended to set the moving part 50 in motion.

The movable portion 50 is adapted to fractionate the fluid jet 22 mechanically, that is to say that the displacement of the movable portion 50 intersects the fluid jet 22, preferably regularly, to divide it mechanically. The fractionation of the fluid jet 22 takes place at one time, and for a very short time, which makes it possible to control the mechanical action of fragmentation as well as the size of the elements 14.

The movable portion 50 has through openings 52 along the flow axis X-X ', advantageously regularly spaced from each other.

According to a particular embodiment, the through apertures 52 have sizes and / or different surfaces from each other. This particular embodiment makes it possible, for example, to form dispersions according to the invention comprising at least two populations of dispersed elements of different sizes, which can impact the visual and / or the sensoriality and / or the homogeneity of the effect. , especially cosmetic, sought after.

For example, the movable part 50 has the shape of a planar or cylindrical grid, comprising an alternation of bars or wires, in particular of metal, and of openings 52.

Each opening 52 advantageously has a transverse extent substantially equal to a transverse extent of the opening 34, in a plane orthogonal to the flow axis X-X '. Thus, the opening 52 is adapted to allow the flow of the fluid jet 22 when it is opposite the outlet 34.

The actuator is intended to move the movable portion 50 in a direction substantially transverse to the direction of flow of the fluid jet 22 through the outlet 34. The actuator comprises for example an electric motor and a crank-rod system.

The movable portion 50 is thus movable at least between a closed position, in which the outlet 34 is not facing one of the openings 52 and the movable portion 50 is substantially in the axis X-X 'of the flow fluid jet 22, and an open position in which the outlet 34 is opposite one of the openings 52 and the movable portion 50 allows the flow of the fluid jet 22 without fractionation of the latter.

The actuator is configured to move the movable portion 50 between the open position and the closed position at a predetermined frequency, so as to fragment the fluid jet 22 and thus form the dispersion 12 according to the invention. The speed (or frequency) of movement of the movable portion 50 between the open position and the closed position, the dimensions of the movable portion 50 and / or the opening 52, the spacing between the movable portion 50 and the opening 52 and / or the flow rates imposed on the first fluid 36 and the second fluid 40 determine the size of the elements 14.

According to a preferred embodiment, the elements 14 are monophasic and comprise only the first fluid 36, and optionally a bark 16A as mentioned above.

The volume of the elements 14 depends on the displacement frequency of the mobile part 50, the dimensions of the mobile part 50 and / or the opening 52, the spacing between the mobile part 50 and the opening 52 and / or flow rates imposed on the first fluid 36 and the second fluid 40, and therefore on the fluid jet 22. In particular, the volume ratio of the elements 14 and the continuous phase 18 depends on the ratio of the flow rates of the first fluid 36 and the second fluid 40 to the outlet 34 of the nozzle 20.

The adjustments at the level of these different parameters depend on the general knowledge of the person skilled in the art. In other words, those skilled in the art will be able to make the necessary adjustments to form elements 14 of the desired size, or even manufacture a dispersion according to the invention comprising at least two populations of dispersed elements of different sizes.

The chamber 26 is intended to receive the dispersion 12 resulting from the fragmentation of the fluid jet 22 and to evacuate the dispersion 12 for distribution.

According to a first variant (shown in FIG. 1), the chamber 26 is situated directly at the outlet 34 of the nozzle 20, so that the nozzle 20 opens directly into the receptacle 26 through the fragmentation device 24.

According to a not shown embodiment, the device 10 further comprises at least one mixer in which the dispersion 12 is injected, capable of exerting a controlled and homogeneous shear on the elements 14. The mixer comprises at least one shear cell.

The mixer is adapted to improve the monodispersity of the elements 14, the elements 14 being subjected to shear capable of fragmenting them into elements 14 of homogeneous and controlled diameters, as described in more detail in EP3144058. According to this embodiment, the dispersion 12 obtained comprises elements 14 having an improved size homogeneity.

The shear cell is advantageously a Couette type cell, comprising at least two coaxial rotary cylinders. The cylinders comprise, for example, an outer cylinder having an internal radius Ro and an internal cylinder having an outer radius Ri, with Ro> Ri. The outer cylinder is for example fixed, and the inner cylinder is for example animated with a rotational movement at constant angular velocity w. The dispersion 12 is disposed between the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder, and sheared by the differential movement of the two cylinders.

Alternatively, the shear cell comprises two parallel rotating disks, or two parallel oscillating plates.

Other embodiments of the device 10

According to an embodiment shown in Figure 2, the device 10 further comprises at least one independent conduit 62 adapted to convey at the level of the dispersion 12 at least one additional fluid 64 from an independent channel 66 for supplying additional fluid 64 comprising at least one solution for increasing the viscosity of the continuous phase 18. The second fluid 40 is thus miscible with the additional fluid 64. Such a solution for increasing the viscosity is, for example, a solution containing a base, especially a alkali hydroxide, such as sodium hydroxide, and is especially described in WO2015055748 whose contents are incorporated by reference.

According to another embodiment shown in Figure 3, the movable portion of the fragmentation device 24 comprises a rotary wiper 80 rotatable about a central axis Z-Z 'at a constant angular velocity.

The scraper 80 is for example a hollow-axis rotor, substantially circular and has openings 82 oriented radially, opening on an outer contour 84 of the scraper 80. The openings 82 open into the central recessed portion of the scraper 80. Advantageously, the openings 82 are regularly spaced along the outer contour 84.

The outer contour 84 extends in the vicinity of the outlet 34, and is orthogonal to the flow axis X-X ', so that the outer contour is substantially tangent to the plane of the opening 34.

The fragmentation device 24 is thus movable by rotation around the central axis ZZ 'between the open position in which one of the openings 82 is opposite the outlet 34 and the closed position, as described above.

The actuator is for example a clean electric motor to drive the rotary wiper in rotation about the central axis Z-Z '. The frequency of passage of the position closed at the open position then depends on the rotational angular speed of the scraper 80 and the angular difference between two successive openings 82.

Alternatively, the wiper 80 is driven by an oscillating rather than a rotary movement, preferably at a constant angular velocity.

According to another embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the device 10 comprises a nozzle 20 comprising the first conduit 30 and the second conduit 32 and a third conduit 100. At least a portion of the third conduit 100 is surrounded, preferably coaxially, by at least a portion of the first conduit 30. The third conduit 100 is adapted to convey a third fluid 102, and provided by a third channel 104 for supplying third fluid 102.

According to a variant (not shown), the first duct 30 and the third duct 100, or even the second duct 32, open out on the same plane, in particular at the outlet 34 of the nozzle 20.

The fluid jet 22 then comprises the first fluid 36, the second fluid 40 surrounding the first fluid 36, preferably coaxially, and the third fluid 102 surrounded by the first fluid 36, preferably coaxially, the fluid jet 22 being formed by coextrusion. Each of the elements 14 formed after fragmentation of the fluid jet 22 then comprises, at least temporarily, an outer core 1 10 formed by the first fluid 36, and at least one, preferably a single, inner core 1 12 formed by the third fluid 102 disposed in the outer heart 1 10.

Indeed, according to a first variant, the third fluid 102 and the first fluid 36 are substantially miscible. This variant is advantageous in that it allows the encapsulation within the same phase of raw materials not compatible with each other, or even of a nature to impact the proper functioning of the device 10.

By "miscible" or "substantially miscible" in the sense of the present invention is meant the solubility of a first phase (or fluid) in a second phase (or fluid) which, at room temperature and at atmospheric pressure, is advantageously greater than 5% by mass.

Thus, by way of illustration of this first variant, in the case where the elements 14 comprise a coacervate bark 16A, the third fluid 102 comprises high levels of vegetable oils and the first fluid 36 comprises at least one lipophilic cationic polymer precursor of the coarcervate , in particular an amodimethicone, as described above, in an oil known to be a good solvent for the cationic polymer. Thus, any possible incompatibility between said cationic polymer and the vegetable oil occurs after the formation of the coacervate bark. More generally, the third fluid 102 and the first fluid 36 each comprise active agents capable of reacting with each other; thus, these assets govern together after the formation of the elements 14.

This makes it possible to form monophasic elements.

According to a second variant, the third fluid 102 and the first fluid 36 are substantially immiscible. The dispersion 12 is thus multiple, in particular double, and in particular of the water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water-in-oil or oil-in-oil-in-water type. This makes it possible to form two-phase elements.

According to a first example, the two-phase elements 14 form drops provided with a multicomponent core, that is to say comprising an inner core 1 12 formed by the third fluid 102 and an outer core 1 10 formed of the first fluid. 36 completely surrounding the inner core 1 12. Optionally, these drops comprise a bark, in particular coacervate, as described above at the interface between the first fluid 36 and the continuous phase 18, or even further between the first fluid 36 and the third fluid 102. Such a drop is illustrated in FIG.

According to a second example (not shown) in which the elements 14 are two-phase, the dispersion 12 is such that the first phase 16 comprises at least a first gelling agent and optionally the continuous phase 18 comprises at least one second gelling agent. In other words, the two-phase elements 14 according to this second variant have improved kinetic stability and mechanical strength despite the absence of bark and the gelling of the outer core 1 10 makes it possible to prevent creaming or sedimentation of the inner core 1 12. Examples of gelling agents are described in the application filed under No. FR1752208 whose contents are incorporated by reference.

According to a third example, the elements 14 form drops based on a combination of the first and second examples above.

According to a fourth example, the elements 14 form capsules comprising a core 1 13 formed by the third fluid 102 and a bark 16C formed by the first fluid 36 disposed around the core 1 13. Such a capsule is illustrated in FIG.

The bark may be made from at least one gelling agent.

Such a gelling agent may for example be chosen from a heat-sensitive gelling agent that is solid at room temperature and at atmospheric pressure, such as by the agar, and / or be chosen from a polysaccharide, in particular a polyelecrolyte reactive with multivalent ions, such as for example an alginate.

The gelling of the polyelectrolyte imposes the presence in the second fluid 40 of at least one reagent capable of reacting with the polyelectrolyte to change it from a liquid state to a gelled state. Such a reagent is typically a solution comprising multivalent ions such as alkaline earth metal ions selected for example from calcium ions, barium ions, magnesium ions, and mixtures thereof. Examples of gelling agents, in particular heat-sensitive agents, polysaccharides, in particular polyelectrolytes reactive with multivalent ions, and reagents capable of reacting with the polyelectrolyte to change it from a liquid state to a gelled state are described in WO2010063937.

Preferably, when the second fluid 40 comprises at least one reagent capable of reacting with the polyelectrolyte present in the first fluid 36 to change it from a liquid state to a gelled state, the first fluid 36 and / or the second fluid 40 comprises in addition at least at least one gelling retarder, such as, for example, a tetrasodium pyrophosphate.

According to another embodiment not shown, the device 10 further comprises at least one clean heating device for heating at least the first fluid 36 and / or the second fluid 40, for example at the level of the feed channel 38 first. fluid 36 and / or the channel 42 for supplying second fluid 40 and / or in the nozzle 20. The heating device is for example disposed in the vicinity of the first conduit 30 and / or the second conduit 32, and in particular surrounds the first conduit 30 and / or the second conduit 32, preferably coaxially. According to a first variant, the heating device comprises, for example, a heating resistor and an electric generator, and is suitable for heating the first fluid 36 and / or the second fluid 40 by Joule effect. According to a second variant, the heating device comprises, for example, a heat exchanger.

Alternatively, the heater is adapted to heat the third fluid 102, and is disposed adjacent the third channel 104 for supplying third fluid 102 and / or third conduit 100, or is capable of heating both the first fluid 36, the second fluid 40 and the third fluid 102 and located in the vicinity of the first conduit 30, the second conduit 32 and the third conduit 100.

Production set 75 Referring to Figure 3, there is described a production assembly 75 comprising a plurality of production devices 10 according to the first embodiment previously described.

The production devices 10 are arranged around at least one centripetal circle, with their respective flow axes X-X 'converging towards the center of the circle. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the production devices 10 are arranged in a centripetal circle whose center is situated on the central axis Z-Z '.

According to a not shown embodiment, the production devices 10 are arranged in at least two superimposed centripetal circles, the centers of which are aligned along the central axis Z-Z '. Such an embodiment is advantageous in that it makes it possible to easily increase the production yields in dispersion 12 according to the invention, if necessary without multiplying the conduits 38, 42 and optionally 104 supply, respectively, with fluids. 36, 40 and 102.

The outputs 34 of the devices 10 open into the same shared chamber 26, intended to receive the dispersion 12 produced by each of the devices 10.

The production assembly 75 comprises a fluid distribution system capable of supplying each production device 10 with first fluid 36, second fluid 40, and optionally third fluid 102, via first channels 38, second channels respectively. 42 and optionally third channels 104.

Advantageously, the devices 10 share the same first channel 38 and the same second channel 42 and optionally the same third channel 104, the first channel 38 and the second channel 42 and optionally the third channel 104 being substantially circular and concentric with the centripetal circle.

Advantageously, each first channel 38 opens into (s) first (s) conduit (s) 30 and each second channel 42 opens into (s) second (s) conduit (s) 32, or each third channel 104 opens into the (s) third (s) 100 through at least a pressure drop, for example formed by a reduced section channel portion. The pressure drop causes a slowing down of the flow of the first fluid 36, respectively the second fluid 40, or even the third fluid 102 upstream of the nozzle 20.

The channel portions have a section in a plane transverse to the direction of flow of the first fluid 36, respectively the second fluid 40, or even the third fluid 102, of smaller area than the cross sections of the first channel 38 and the first conduit 30, respectively of the second channel 42 and the second conduit 32, or even the third channel 104 and the third conduit 100. Due to the pressure drop produced, it is possible to regulate the flow of the first fluid 36, respectively of the second fluid 40, or even the third fluid 102 downstream of the pressure drop and thus to homogenize the fluid (s) injected (s) in the production devices 10.

The fluid distribution system comprises for example a first pump fluidly connected to the first channel 38 and a first fluid reservoir 36. The first pump is adapted to circulate the first fluid 36 in the first channel 38 and to supply the devices 10 first fluid 36 with predetermined flow.

The fluid distribution system also comprises a second pump fluidly connected to the second channel 42 and to a second fluid reservoir 40. The second pump is capable of circulating the second fluid 40 in the second channel 42 and supplying the devices 10 with second fluid 40 with a predetermined flow rate, equal or not to the flow rate of the first fluid 36.

Optionally, the fluid distribution system also comprises a third pump fluidly connected to the third channel 104 and a third fluid reservoir 102. The third pump is adapted to circulate the third fluid 102 in the third channel 104 and to supply the devices 10 in the third fluid 102 with a predetermined flow rate, equal or not to the flow rate of the first fluid 36 and / or the second fluid 40.

The devices 10 advantageously share the same fragmentation device, which comprises a rotary wiper 80 as described above. The rotary scraper 80 is arranged to traverse an inner contour 83 of the centripetal circle and thus be substantially tangent to the plane of opening of each of the outlets 34 of the devices 10. The inner contour 83 of the centripetal circle and the outer contour 84 of the scraper 80 are advantageously separated by a distance less than or equal to 1 mm, preferably less than or equal to 0.5 mm, and better still less than or equal to 0.2 mm.

The openings 82 of the rotary scraper 80 are advantageously regularly spaced angularly, the rotary scraper is therefore adapted to fragment the fluid jets 22 formed by each of the nozzles 20 at the same predetermined frequency and thus form the elements 14 identically to the output 34 of FIG. each of the nozzles 20.

The openings 82 of the rotary scraper 80 may also have different sizes and / or surfaces from each other, the rotary scraper then being adapted to form at least two populations of elements 14 of different sizes.

According to an alternative embodiment, the devices advantageously share the same fragmentation device, which comprises an oscillating wiper 80. According to a variant (not shown), the production devices 10 of the assembly 75 are arranged around at least one centrifugal circle, with their respective flow axes X-X 'diverging from the center of the circle.

The outlets 34 of the devices 10 are oriented towards the outside of the centrifugal circle and open into the same shared substantially annular chamber 26 arranged around the production devices 10.

The fluid distribution system is as described above, the first channel 38, the second channel 42 and optionally the third channel 104 for dispensing fluids being disposed internally with respect to the production devices 10, for example in the vicinity of the central axis Z-Z '.

The rotating or oscillating wiper 80 is shared between the devices 10 and arranged to traverse an outer contour of the centrifugal circle. An inner contour of the wiper 80 is thus substantially tangent to the outlets 34 of the devices 10, as described above.

According to a second variant (not shown), the outlets 34 of the nozzles 20 are arranged substantially parallel to each other, and substantially parallel to the central axis Z-Z '. The rotating or oscillating scraper 80 is arranged to face the outlets of the nozzles 20 parallel to each other.

The scraper 80 has, for example, the shape of a disk rotating around the central axis Z-Z ', having apertures 52 passing therethrough in the vicinity of its periphery, arranged to face the outlets 34 and opening into the chamber 26. The scraper 80 has a thickness greater than or equal to 5 mm, in particular greater than or equal to 10 mm, or even greater than or equal to 20 mm, and preferably less than or equal to 200 mm, advantageously less than or equal to 100 mm.

Thus, the opening (s) 52 may thus have the shape of a tunnel, for example circular or oblong, which constitutes an environment conducive to the realization of stabilization phenomena dispersed elements under mild conditions, especially when the bark is formed of a coacervate layer as described above, then allowing the dispersion to better withstand disturbances and / or shear phenomena that may occur in the chamber 26.

The fragmentation device 24 according to this second embodiment may further advantageously comprise at least one cooling system. Such an "integrated" and continuous cooling system has improved cooling performance and space optimization compared to a conventional cooling system best disposed at the chamber 26.

Production process A production method of the dispersion 12 implementing the device 10 shown in Figure 1 will now be described. The production process comprises a preliminary step of supplying the production device 10, as well as a first fluid 36 and a second fluid 40 that is substantially immiscible with the first fluid 36.

Advantageously, the first fluid 36 is supplied via a first fluid supply duct 38 connected fluidly to a first duct 30 and the second fluid 40 is supplied via a second duct 42. second fluid supply 40 fluidly connected to a second conduit 32 of a nozzle 20 of the device 10.

The method comprises at least one flow step, in the direction of an outlet 34 of the nozzle 20 in a direction of flow X-X ', the first fluid 36 in a first conduit 30 and the second fluid 40 in a second conduit 32, said second conduit 32 surrounding, preferably coaxially, at least a portion of the first conduit 30.

The method then comprises a step of forming a fluid jet 22 at the outlet 34 of the nozzle 20, the fluid jet 22 being formed by coextrusion and comprising the first fluid 36 and the second fluid 40 surrounding the first fluid 36, preferably coaxially.

Advantageously, the fluid jet 22 flows in the direction of flow X-X ', and transversely to an opening plane of the outlet 34.

The method comprises a step of moving a moving part 50 of a fragmentation device 24 of the production device 10, to fragment the fluid jet 22 and obtain a dispersion 12 according to the invention.

Advantageously, the mobile part 50 is displaced in a direction substantially orthogonal to the flow direction X-X ', and substantially tangentially to the opening plane of the outlet 34.

Advantageously, the movable portion 50 is moved by an actuator so as to form the elements 14 at a fixed predetermined frequency. The elements 14 are then substantially identical to each other, so that the dispersion 12 obtained is monodisperse.

Advantageously, the movable portion 50 is a rotary scraper 80, the displacement of the movable portion 50 is then a rotation about a central axis Z-Z 'at a constant angular velocity. Alternatively, the movable portion 50 is a scraper with oscillating rather than rotary motion at constant angular velocity. An outer contour 84 of the rotary wiper then extends in the vicinity of the outlet 34, substantially tangentially to the opening plane of the outlet 34.

The method finally comprises a step of recovering the dispersion 12 comprising the elements 14 dispersed in the continuous phase 18.

In another embodiment, the method comprises the step of flowing the first fluid 36 and second fluid 40 as described above, as well as a third fluid 102 in a third duct 100 surrounded at least in part by preferably coaxially, by at least a portion of the first conduit 30.

According to a first variant, the third fluid 102 is substantially miscible with the first fluid 36.

According to a second variant, the third fluid 102 is substantially immiscible with the first fluid 36.

The fluid jet 22 thus formed by coextrusion comprises the first fluid 36, the second fluid 40 and the third fluid 102, in which the second fluid 40 surrounds the first fluid 36, preferably in a coaxial manner, and the first fluid 36 surrounds the third fluid 102, preferably coaxially.

In the dispersion 12 thus obtained and according to the immiscible or miscible nature of the first fluid 36 and third fluid 102 between them, the elements 14 are monophasic or two-phase.

In another embodiment, the method further comprises a step of refining in size, during which a controlled and homogeneous shear is applied to the elements 14 in a mixer, the mixer being in particular as described above.

In another embodiment, the method further comprises a step of filtering the dispersion 12 to harvest only the elements 14.

Additional compounds and assets

A dispersion 12 according to the invention, in particular the dispersed phase 16 (first fluid 36) and / or the continuous phase 18 (second fluid 40) and / or the third fluid 102, may further comprise at least one additional compound different from the precursor polymers of the coacervate, gelling agents and polysaccharides mentioned above.

A dispersion 12 according to the invention, in particular the dispersed phase 16 (first fluid 36) and / or the continuous phase 18 (second fluid 40) and / or the third fluid 102, may furthermore comprise powders, flakes, coloring agents, especially chosen from water-soluble or non-fat-soluble, liposoluble or non-organic or inorganic dyes, pigments, optical effect materials, liquid crystals, and mixtures thereof, particulate agents insoluble in the fatty phase, emulsifying and / or non-emulsifying silicone elastomers, preservatives, humectants, stabilizers, chelators, emollients, modifying agents selected from pH, strength agents osmotic and / or refractive index modifiers etc ... or any usual cosmetic additive, and mixtures thereof.

A dispersion 12 according to the invention, in particular the dispersed phase 16 (first fluid 36) and / or the continuous phase 18 (second fluid 40) and / or the third fluid 102, may further comprise at least one active agent, in particular biological or cosmetic, preferably chosen from hydrating agents, healing agents, depigmenting agents, UV filters, desquamating agents, antioxidants, active agents stimulating the synthesis of dermal and / or epidermal macromoleculars, agents dermodecontracting agents, antiperspirants, soothing agents, anti-aging agents, perfuming agents and mixtures thereof. Such assets are in particular described in FR 1 558 849, the content of which is incorporated by reference.

Of course, those skilled in the art will take care to choose any additional compound (s) mentioned above and / or their respective amounts so that the device and / or the advantageous properties of a dispersion according to the invention are not not or substantially unaffected by the proposed addition. In particular, the nature and / or the amount of the additional compound (s) depends (s) on the aqueous or oily (or oily) nature of the phase of the dispersion according to the invention. These adjustments are within the skill of the skilled person.

uses

A dispersion according to the invention may be a topical and therefore non-oral composition, or a food composition.

Preferably, a dispersion according to the invention is directly usable, at the end of the aforementioned preparation processes, as a composition, in particular a cosmetic composition.

The dispersions according to the invention may comprise, in addition to the aforementioned ingredients, at least one physiologically acceptable medium.

In the context of the invention, and unless otherwise stated, the term "physiologically acceptable medium" means a medium suitable for cosmetic applications, and particularly suitable for the application of a composition of the invention to a keratinous material, in particular the skin and / or the hair, and more particularly the skin.

The physiologically acceptable medium is generally adapted to the nature of the medium to which the composition is to be applied, as well as to the appearance under which the composition is to be packaged.

According to one embodiment, the physiologically acceptable medium is directly represented by the continuous phase as described above.

The cosmetic compositions of the invention may be, for example, a cream, an emulsion, a lotion, a serum, a gel and an oil for the skin (hands, face, feet, etc.), a foundation (liquid, paste ) a preparation for baths and showers (salts, foams, oils, gels, etc.), a hair care product (hair dye and bleach), a cleaning product (lotions, powders, shampoos), a care product for the hair (lotions, creams, oils), a styling product (lotions, lacquers, glossines), a product for shaving (soaps, foams, lotions, etc.), a product intended to be applied to the lips, a product solar, a tanning product without sun, a product for whitening the skin, an anti-wrinkle product. In particular, the cosmetic compositions of the invention may be an anti-aging serum, a youth serum, a moisturizing serum or a scented water.

The present invention also relates to a non-therapeutic method for the cosmetic treatment of a keratin material, in particular the skin and / or the hair, and more particularly the skin, comprising a step of applying to said keratin material at least one composition or at least one layer of a cosmetic composition mentioned above.

Throughout the description, the phrase "comprising one" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one", unless the opposite is specified.

The expressions "between ... and ...", "from ... to ..." and "from ... to ..." must be understood as inclusive, unless otherwise specified.

Claims

Apparatus (10) for producing a dispersion (12) comprising elements (14) comprising at least a first phase (16), dispersed in a continuous phase (18) substantially immiscible with the first phase (16), the device (10) comprising:

at least one production nozzle (20) comprising at least a first conduit (30) intended to convey a first fluid (36) capable of constituting the first phase (16), a second conduit (32) surrounding, preferably in a manner coaxial, at least a portion of the first conduit (30), the second conduit (32) being adapted to convey a second fluid (40) adapted to constitute the continuous phase (18), and an outlet (34), the nozzle (20). ) being adapted to form at the outlet (34) a fluid jet (22) comprising at least the first fluid (36) and the second fluid (40) surrounding the first fluid (36), preferably in a coaxial manner, and

at least one mechanical fragmentation device (24) for the fluid jet (22) disposed in the vicinity of the outlet (34) of the nozzle (20), the fragmentation device (24) comprising a moving part (50) relative to to the nozzle (20) for mechanically fragmenting the fluid jet (22) into a plurality of elements (14) including the first fluid (36) dispersed in the continuous phase (18).

2.- Device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle (20) of production comprises a third conduit (100), at least a portion of which is surrounded, preferably coaxially, by at least a portion of the first conduit (30), the third conduit (100) being adapted to convey a third fluid (102) substantially immiscible with the first fluid (36), the fluid jet (22) comprising the third fluid (102), the first fluid (36) surrounding the third fluid (102), preferably coaxially, and the second fluid (40) surrounding the first fluid (36), preferably in a coaxial manner, each element (14) dispersed in the continuous phase (18) comprising a outer core (1 10) formed by the first fluid (36), and at least one, preferably a single, inner core (1 12) formed by the third fluid (102) disposed in the outer core (1 10).

The device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each element (14) comprises a bark (16A), preferably formed of a coacervate layer, at the interface between the first phase (16) and the continuous phase (18), and optionally furthermore at the interface between the first phase (16) and the third fluid (102).

4.- Device (10) according to claim 2, wherein the first phase (16) of the elements (14) forms a bark (16C) formed of a layer comprising at least one gelling agent, in particular selected from a gelling agent thermosensitive solid at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, a polysaccharide, in particular a multivalent reactive polyelectrolyte, between the third fluid (102) and the continuous phase (18).

5.- Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the device (10) comprises at least one independent conduit (62) for conveying to the dispersion (12) an additional fluid (64) comprising at least one solution for increasing the viscosity of the continuous phase (18).

6.- Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the device (10) comprises at least one heating device adapted to heat at least the first fluid (36), and optionally the second fluid ( 40) and / or the third fluid (102), at least in the production nozzle (20).

7.- Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the movable portion (50) of the fragmentation device (24) comprises a scraper (80) rotating or oscillating, provided with openings (82) successive.

8.- Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the elements (14) have a substantially spherical shape.

9. A device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least 60%, or even at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, and better still at least 90% of the elements (14) present an average diameter greater than or equal to 10 μm, preferably greater than or equal to 50 μm, in particular greater than or equal to 100 μm, even greater than or equal to 200 μm, better still greater than or equal to 300 μm, and in particular greater than or equal to at 400 μm, and better still greater than or equal to 500 μm and / or the elements (14) having a diameter greater than or equal to 100 μm represent a volume greater than or equal to 60%, or even greater than or equal to 70%, preferably greater than or equal to or equal to 80%, and better or equal to 90% of the total volume of the dispersed phase

10.- Device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the device (10) further comprising at least one mixer capable of exerting on the elements (14) a homogeneous controlled shear, said mixer comprising at least one cell formed by at least:

- two coaxial rotary cylinders;

- two parallel rotating discs; or

- two parallel oscillating plates.

1. A dispersion producing assembly (75) (12) comprising a plurality of production devices (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and a fluid distribution system capable of supplying each device ( 10) at least first fluid (36) and second fluid (40) and, optionally, third fluid (102), preferably the outlets (34) of the nozzles (20) opening into the same chamber (26).

12.- assembly (75) according to claim 1 1, wherein the devices (10) are arranged in at least one centripetal circle, the outputs (34) of the nozzles (20) being oriented towards a center of the circle.

13.- assembly (75) according to any one of claims 1 1 and 12, wherein the fragmentation device (24) is common to all devices (10).

14.- assembly (75) according to claims 12 and 13, wherein the movable portion (50) of the fragmentation device (24) comprises a common scraper (80) rotating or oscillating arranged to traverse an inner contour (83) of the circle centripetal.

15. A method of manufacturing a dispersion (12) comprising elements (14) comprising at least a first phase (16) dispersed in a continuous phase (18), the method comprising at least the following steps:

- Providing a production device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and at least a first fluid (36) and a second fluid (40) substantially immiscible with the first fluid (36);

- flows of the first fluid (36) in the first conduit (30), the first fluid (36) forming the first phase (16) and the second fluid (40) in the second conduit (32) surrounding, preferably coaxially the first conduit (30);

- forming a fluid jet (22) at the outlet (34) of the nozzle (20), the fluid jet (22), formed by coextrusion, comprising at least the first fluid (36) and the second fluid (40); ) surrounding the first fluid (36), preferably coaxially; moving the moving part (50) of the fragmentation device (24) to fragment the fluid jet (22) and obtain elements (14) comprising at least the first fluid (36) dispersed in the second fluid (40); and

- recovery of the dispersion (12).

The method of claim 15, further comprising a step of flowing a third fluid (102) into a third conduit (100), at least a portion of the third conduit (100) being surrounded, preferably coaxial, by at least a portion of the first conduit (30), the fluid jet (22) also comprising the third fluid (102), the first fluid (36) surrounding the third fluid (102), preferably coaxially.

17. A process according to any one of claims 15 to 16, comprising a step of refining in size, during which a controlled and homogeneous shear is applied to the elements (14) in a mixer, the mixer being in particular of type Duvet comprising two coaxial cylinders, an outer cylinder of inner radius R ₀ and an inner cylinder of outer radius R ,, the outer cylinder being fixed and the inner cylinder rotating with an angular velocity w.