Experimental multiscale approach and instrumental techniques for the characterization of Pickering emulsions

The aim of this chapter is to propose a step-by-step approach for the study of emulsions stabilized by particles independently of the system chemical nature. This includes tools as simple as macroscopic observations of the obtained emulsions up to more sophisticated techniques, like electron microscopy or interfacial rheology. The progressive characterization allows collecting information at different length scales: at the level of the emulsion properties, at the level of drops, and down to the particle packing at the oil-water interface, highlighting the interaction between drops and adsorbed particles. The link between the various length scales is also enhanced. For example, bridging of particles adsorbed at the interface of neighboring drops is responsible for the adhesion between drops leading to a plug flow that can be assessed by naked eyes. Therefore, the chapter pretends to be a general guideline for studying a new unknown system, starting from scratch.