Microencapsulation Technology Microencapsulation technology refers to the use of natural or synthetic polymeric compound materials to make capsule wall shells (films) in which drugs (synthetic, semi-synthetic, biological products) are encapsulated in a capsule membrane and released at a controlled rate only under specific conditions. This technique has no effect on the original chemical properties of the drug, and the drug is released for therapeutic purposes by some external stimulation or slow release. Microcapsules generally have a diameter of 1 to 500 μm and a wall thickness of 0.5 to 150 μm. Microcapsules have the ability to improve and enhance the appearance of substances and their properties, store microscopic substances, delay and control release, and protect the core material from the environment, reduce toxicity, and shield it from odors.
Preparation Options for Microcapsules
Chemical Method Interfacial polymerization method, in situ polymerization method, sharp pore solidification bath method. Physicochemical Method Condensed phase separation method, complex phase emulsion method. Physico-Mechanical Method Air suspension film formation method, spray drying method. Performance Evaluation Performance evaluation of microcapsules includes: surface morphology of microcapsules, core size, particle size distribution, microcapsule wall thickness, microcapsule core release performance, encapsulation rate, etc. Through a series of tests, the performance of microcapsules is evaluated to determine whether the microcapsules meet the requirements and regulations.
Laboratory Instruments •
Optical microscope
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Scanning Electron Microscope
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Transmission electron microscope
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Electron microscope
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Spectrophotometer
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High Performance Liquid Chromatography
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Thermogravimetry
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Infrared spectrometer
Application of microencapsulation technology in pharmaceuticals •
Insulation that can mask offensive or undesirable odors, used for the delivery of fish oil, certain Chinese medicines, etc.
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Improve the safety of transported drugs and change the release behavior of drugs, used for the delivery of microencapsulated insulin, etc.
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Avoid deactivation and instability of drugs in the body, used in the delivery of testosterone, etc. Source: https://www.formulationbio.com/microencapsulation-technology-services.html