Inclusion of cinnamaldehyde in modified γ-cyclodextrins

This work deals with the formation of inclusion complexes between cinnamaldehyde and two synthetic alkylcarbonates of γ-cyclodextrin, namely ethylcarbonate-γ-CD and octylcarbonate-γ-CD. Complexation was monitored by phase-solubility studies, by FT-IR spectroscopy and by DSC and TG analysis. The diffusion of cinnamaldehyde through a cellulose membrane was investigated in the absence and in the presence of each of the two γ-CD alkylcarbonates. Studies on photostability and stability over time were carried out on different cosmetic formulations containing pure cinnamaldehyde or an equivalent amount of cinnamaldehyde complexed with the two alkylcarbonates. Phase-solubility diagrams, DSC, FTIR and TGA analysis suggested the formation of inclusion complexes. The diffusion of cinnamaldehyde through the cellulose membrane decreased in the presence of the two alkylcarbonates confirming the interaction of this molecule with the inclusion agents. Moreover the stability of cinnamaldehyde to light and heat resulted increased by complexing this fragrance material with the two alkylcarbonates.