Microcapsules and Microspheres: understanding, measuring and controlling
On microcapsules and microspheres present various interests for industries, encapsulation often being intended to solubilize, protect, transport active ingredients or molecules of particular interest.
At Rheonis, we support manufacturers in the characterization, optimization and control microcapsules and microspheres, by combining multi-physical expertise and tailor-made methods adapted to industrial and sectoral constraints.
A complete range of services
Rheonis offers a integrated approach, ranging from measurement to industrialization:
- Physicochemical and mechanical characterization : size, distribution, envelope resistance, elasticity, permeability.
- Structural and microstructure analysis : single or multi-layer envelope, active content, interfacial interactions.
- Stability assessment and controlled release : coalescence, rupture, diffusion of active ingredients, thermal and mechanical aging.
- Formulation optimization : envelope materials (natural polymers: alginate, gelatin, chitosan; synthetic polymers: polyurethane, poly(lactide-co-glycolide), acrylate polymers) and internal composition.
- Process support : encapsulation, drying, granulation, dispersion and integration into formulations.
- Support for innovation : development of functional microcapsules for cosmetics, food, pharmaceutical or industrial applications.
Measurements and analyses carried out
To anticipate and control the behavior of microcapsules and microspheres, Rheonis mobilizes:
- Particle size and distribution : granulometry, optical and electronic imaging.
- Mechanical resistance and integrity of the envelope : compression, penetration, torsion, creep.
- Release and permeability : diffusion, dissolution, stability of the active content.
- Physical chemistry and interactions : zeta potential, chemical affinities, interfacial stability.
- Thermal and environmental stability : behavior with humidity, temperature and prolonged storage.
Industrial applications
Microcapsules and microspheres are used in many sectors:
- Cosmetics : encapsulation of anti-aging, moisturizing or sensory active ingredients in creams, gels or powders.
- Food : controlled release of vitamins, flavors or probiotics.
- Pharmaceutical : prolonged release matrices, protection of sensitive active ingredients.
- Paints and inks : gradual release of pigments, additives or functional agents.
- Technical industry : microcapsules for lubricants, adhesives or functional materials.
Associated industrial processes
- Coacervation or emulsion encapsulation
- Spray drying
- Granulation and spheronization
- Encapsulation by in situ polymerization
- Integration into liquid, pasty or solid formulations
Rheonis added values
- Interdisciplinary expertise : rheology, mechanics, physical chemistry and tribology applied to particulate systems.
- Tailor-made methods adapted to specific formulations and processes.
- Performance optimization : integrity, controlled release, stability and processability.
- Strategic support : product innovation, industrialization and sustainability.
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