Ultrastable Agrochemical Emulsions Designed by Electrostatic Entanglement of Cellulose Nanocrystals and Partially Cation‐Substituted Hyaluronate

Global reliance on synthetic surfactants has led to significant environmental challenges, with current management and policy efforts proving to be largely ineffective. Sustainable and environment-friendly surfactants offer a promising solution for mitigating these impacts. This study introduces an emulsifier composed of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and partially cation-substituted hyaluronate (CHA), both of which are derived from abundant and cost-effective natural polysaccharides. The synergistic interplay of electrostatic interactions and controlled molecular entanglement between these macromolecules significantly enhances the stability and ripening resistance of the water-in-oil emulsion. This optimized formulation demonstrates remarkable longevity, maintaining emulsion integrity for over 365 days while exhibiting exceptional salt tolerance and pH stability across various environmental conditions. Additionally, this entangled polysaccharide-based Pickering emulsion demonstrates strong adhesion to leaf surfaces, resisting the effects of strong winds and the water-repellent properties of the lotus leaves. These characteristics associated with microbial compatibility suggest that emulsifiers based on CNCs and CHA provide safer and more sustainable alternatives to conventional surfactants, especially pertinent to the agrochemical sector.