Mechanical behavior and characterization of microcapsules

In recent years microcapsule systems have found applications in many areas of science and technology. Their use to a large extent depends on how mechanical properties are understood and controlled. Here we review different experimental techniques recently developed to probe microcapsule mechanics and to characterize other physical properties of the shell material and capsule interior. We illustrate the potential of these experimental techniques and theoretical models by using data obtained for polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules, one of the most promising systems that shows extremely rich behavior. Applications and/or extensions of methods to study other capsule systems, including bioengineered composites and even living cells, would be straightforward.