New methodologies for environmentally friendly microcapsule design

Identifier:  TDX:4451

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX4451

Authors:  Collu, Mattia

Abstract:
In the field of encapsulation, microcapsules containing perfume have emerged as effective vehicles for delivering active ingredients across various applications. The objective of this thesis is to increase the sustainability of microcapsules without compromising their delivery efficiency. To achieve this goal, considering the complex technical challenges involved in developing high-performance perfume microcapsules, a significant part of this research is dedicated to developing new methods to gain a deeper understanding of perfume microcapsule systems, with particular emphasis on perfume interactions, reactivity, and mechanical properties. The research explores the kinetics of crosslinking by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to provide insights into the mechanisms underlying wall crosslinking. Nanoindentation is employed to assess the hardness and elastic modulus of polymeric films that serve as a model system for the capsule wall, as well as to measure the overall strength and mechanical properties of the microcapsules. Additionally, a multivariate analysis framework is utilized to define the optimal system for delivery efficiency, taking into consideration critical properties such as encapsulation efficiency, on-fabric delivery, and mechanical properties. In summary, this research provides crucial insights for tailoring microcapsule design to achieve optimal delivery efficiency. Furthermore, by designing, there is potential to reduce the amount of active ingredients used, owing to enhanced delivery efficiency and the optimization of other microcapsule properties. Such advances pave the way for more environmentally friendly and sustainable production processes in the fast-moving consumer goods industry.