Acid-responsive microcapsules: the loading-unloading processes

A simple and convenient method to prepare acid-responsive microcapsules by using functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes and ytterbium triflate has been developed. Fluorescence active compounds were pre-loaded or post-loaded in the microcapsules and released later in acidic medium. An interesting zip-unzip phenomenon was observed while filming the action of acid on microcapsules under a microscope.