Biopolymers as shells for microcapsules will be the focus of a symposium to be held on November 16, 2023 at the Fraunhofer Conference Center in the Potsdam Science Park, where the platform will present new advances in the microencapsulation of natural and biodegradable materials and invite participants to discuss possible solutions in an open forum.
In the future, new EU regulations will prohibit the marketing of products containing deliberately added conventional microplastics and those that release microplastics during use. A transition period of four to twelve years applies to cosmetics, fertilizers, and the application of detergents and cleaners. Natural materials and biodegradable polymers are key to exempting products from such regulations.
Microencapsulation is a widely used technology that allows for the targeted release of active ingredients. In detergents and cleaners, microencapsulation protects sensitive ingredients until they are released in a controlled manner during the washing and cleaning process. In cosmetics, among other things, they provide long-lasting effects. In plant protection and fertilizers, microencapsulation prevents them from being used in excess and thus helps to reduce environmental pollution. The Fraunhofer Institute's research in the field of microencapsulation is currently focused on alternatives to perfluorinated or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): microencapsulation with specific barrier properties and microencapsulation with biodegradable shell materials.
Dr. Alexandra Latnikova, microencapsulation expert at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research, emphasizes: "We are developing functional and cost-effective biodegradable microcapsules. For this, an in-depth understanding of polymers and particle formation processes is essential, Latnikova adds. For example, microcapsules protect the active ingredient and allow for targeted release. As a result, they increase the effectiveness and durability of the product. In many applications, the required functionality of microcapsules is often in conflict with the requirement for rapid biodegradability. Parameters such as availability, consistent quality, price and sustainable sources of capsule wall materials also determine the basis for environmentally friendly microcapsules. The development of new materials to fulfill these requirements is the focus of the scientists at Fraunhofer IAP.
