Capsules prepared by the layer-by-layer (LbL) technique are gaining interest. This work proposed a novel approach to improving the mechanical stability of LbL microcapsules under mild conditions by the self polymerisation of dopamine among different polymers in aqueous solution. More specifically, common poly(sodium styrenesulfonate)/poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS/PAH) microcapsules were prepared using layer-by-layer method. The as-prepared microcapsule was then treated with dopamine and compared with PSS/PAH microcapsules fabricated by a similar protocol without dopamine treatment. The morphology, structure, and chemical composition of the microcapsules were characterised, and the underlying mechanism was tentatively discussed. To explore the application potential of the microcapsules, glucosidase was encapsulated for the conversion of maltose to isomaltooligosaccharides. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.