Microencapsulation

1. MICROENCAPSULATION & ITS ROLE IN SMART TEXTILES A review by Mary Ryan

2. DEFINITION E ncapsulation is the process in which capsules are applied to yarn or fabric surface.

3. Latin “ encapsula ” meaning in a little box Examples from nature, egg in a shell seed in a coat cell in a cell membrane

4. Microencapsulation Encapsules of particles between 1 to 999 µm(10-6 to 10-3 meters) i e nanometers (nm) to millimeters (mm)

5. Why is it needed? It is used to change the direct interaction of the encapsulated material with its environment depending on the time. 3 distinct modes of interaction with the environment depends on Choice of the material of the shell Structure of the capsule Material encapsulated

6. 3 different reasons for microencapsulation To avoid direct interaction with the environment altogether To release the contents of the capsule all at once Or slowly over time

7. What drives technology towards microcapsules & nanocapsules ?

8. Microcapsules Spherical polymeric particles Size 1 to 999 µm 50nm to 10mm(non technically)

9. Microspheres Microspheres and Microcapsules are used interchangeably Microspheres are hollow/homogeneous solid polymeric particles

10. Types of microcapsules Mononuclear Polynuclear Monolithic is a matrix composed of encapsulated and encapsulating phases

11. Uses of Microscopic Capsules They can be made to contain beneficial substances(oils, vitamins,antiseptics,aromatic chemicals, moisturisers and antibacterial chemicals) They are released gradually through abrasion when in direct contact with skin.

12. AROMATIC textiles, gives aroma when the surface of the product is rubbed. Underwears are infused with fruity smells,calming lavender and moisturizing oils Masculine scents for men like musk and sandalwood T-shirt with screenprinted image gives a smell like chocolate The effect lasts for some time and it is washed normally

13. Medical Industry Antiseptic capsulated products like wound dressings and bandages Medical and hospital garments are made moisture absorbent For children with sensitive skin the vests are infused with moisturisers and oils A tiny camera is placed on paramedic’s headwear gives visual information to the hospital and the doctor to send immediate treatment.

14. SPORTSWEAR Socks and sports clothing to repel odour and fungal infection Used widely in sportswear to record activities, monitor progress, analyse performance in motorbiking , racing and space suits Swimwear is encapsulated with sunblock to prevent sunburn

15. Home Textiles & Entertainment Industry Bed Linen is encapsulated to aid relaxation and rest. Lavender and camomile gives off a soothing aroma Club wearers garments are encapsulated so that they light up when they move fast.

16. Electronic Textiles INTERACTIVE textiles are built in such a way that computers and electronic technology are able to communicate and work with us. 10% of conductive thread(conductive fibres like Carbon, silver &steel)is used to make the product

17. Brands dealing with Electronic Textiles Levi’s and Philips jointly launched a ICD+ jacket where phone calls can be made and can listen to music with headphones The control panels are built into the jacket Children’s clothing are integrated with camera, so that it can be tracked by parents.

18. Reference http://fibretronic.com/news/Wearables%20Review Books : Smart Textile Coating and Laminates, Textiles Technology

19. Thank you