Mikrokapszulázása

Mikrokapszulázása is a process by which tiny particles or droplets of a substance are enclosed within a thin polymer coating. This coating forms a microscopic capsule, typically ranging in size from a few micrometers to a few millimeters in diameter. The core material inside the capsule, known as the active ingredient or payload, can be a liquid, solid, or gas. The shell, or wall material, is usually a polymer, but can also be made of other materials like gelatin, wax, or even inorganic substances.

The purpose of mikrokapszulázása is manifold. It can protect the active ingredient from degradation due to environmental factors such as light, oxygen, or moisture. It can also control the release of the active ingredient, allowing it to be dispensed gradually over time or triggered by specific conditions like changes in temperature, pH, or the presence of another substance. Furthermore, mikrokapszulázása can mask unpleasant odors or tastes of the core material, improve handling and flow properties, or provide a means of delivering the active ingredient to a specific location.

The encapsulation process itself can be achieved through various methods, including coacervation, spray drying, interfacial polymerization, and extrusion. The choice of method depends on the nature of the core material, the desired capsule properties, and the intended application. Mikrokapszulázása finds widespread use in diverse industries, including pharmaceuticals for drug delivery, food and beverages for flavor and nutrient encapsulation, agriculture for controlled release of pesticides and fertilizers, textiles for adding fragrances or antimicrobial properties, and cosmetics for active ingredient protection and controlled release.