We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Surface Morphology-Enhanced Delivery of Bioinspired Eco-Friendly Microcapsules
Summary
Researchers developed biodegradable microcapsules made from proteins and biominerals as a sustainable replacement for the synthetic polymer microplastic particles used in many consumer products including cosmetics and paints. The capsules degraded naturally and performed comparably to conventional capsules in controlled release tests. Replacing non-biodegradable microcapsules with protein-mineral alternatives could significantly reduce microplastic pollution from consumer goods.
We report the development of novel mineralized protein microcapsules to address critical challenges in the environmental impact and performance of consumer, pharmaceutical, agrochemical, cosmetic, and paint products. We designed environment-friendly capsules composed of proteins and biominerals as an alternative to solid microplastic particles or core-shell capsules made of nonbiodegradable synthetic polymeric resins. We synthesized mineralized capsule surface morphologies to mimic the features of natural pollens, which dramatically improved the deposition of high value-added fragrance chemicals on target substrates in realistic application conditions. A mechanistic model accurately captures the observed enhanced deposition behavior and shows how surface features generate an adhesive torque that resists shear detachment. Mineralized protein capsule performance is shown to depend both on material selection that determines van der Waals attraction and on capsule-substrate energy landscapes as parameterized by a geometric taxonomy for surface morphologies. These findings have broad implications for engineering multifunctional environmentally friendly delivery systems.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Organic–Inorganic Multilayer Microcarriers with Superior Mechanical Properties for Potential Active Delivery in Fast-Moving Consumer Goods
Researchers developed an eco-friendly microcapsule made with a calcium carbonate shell as a sustainable replacement for conventional microplastic-based capsules used in consumer products. These new capsules demonstrated record-breaking mechanical strength and controlled release of fragrance compounds over several days. The innovation offers a path toward eliminating microplastic ingredients in everyday products like laundry detergents and personal care items.
Rational Design of Sustainable Liquid Microcapsules for Spontaneous Fragrance Encapsulation
Researchers designed sustainable liquid microcapsules for fragrance encapsulation using bio-based rather than petroleum-derived materials, reducing environmental impact. This approach could replace conventional capsules that shed microplastic particles into wastewater when rinsed off personal care products.
Environmentally friendly calcium carbonate-polydopamine microcapsules with superior mechanical, barrier, and adhesive properties
Researchers developed biodegradable microcapsules made from calcium carbonate coated with a mussel-inspired polymer (polydopamine) that can hold and slowly release perfume molecules onto fabrics during washing, as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic-based microcapsules. With regulations set to phase out intentionally produced microplastics by 2027, this eco-friendly design matches commercial performance while eliminating plastic microparticle release into waterways.
Degradable poly(β-amino ester) microparticles for cleansing products and food fortification
Researchers developed degradable microparticles made from a material that breaks down into sugar and amino acid byproducts, designed to replace the non-degradable plastic microbeads used in cleansing products and food fortification. These new particles performed similarly to conventional plastic microbeads but dissolve harmlessly in the environment. This innovation could help reduce one significant source of microplastic pollution that enters waterways and the food supply.
Microplastic-Free Microcapsules Using Supramolecular Self-Assembly of Bis-Urea Molecules at an Emulsion Interface
This study developed microplastic-free microcapsules using supramolecular self-assembly chemistry, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional polymer-shelled capsules used in cosmetics and personal care products. The capsules showed effective encapsulation and controlled release properties.