Multi-Layer Fragrance Microcapsules for Stable Solid Formulations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microcapsules used in consumer products face challenges with stability and targeted release of fragrances in solid formulations, leading to premature evaporation or interaction with other ingredients, especially in powdered products, and require complex multi-step preparation processes.
Innovation Solution
Microcapsules with a polyurethane, melamine-formaldehyde, and phenolic resin layer structure, formed in separate layers to enhance stability and targeted release, using specific polyisocyanates and aromatic compounds for improved encapsulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If microcapsules are used in solid consumer product formulations, then fragrance delivery is achieved, but the microcapsules suffer from mechanical, chemical, and thermal damage during formulation
Solution Approach 1:
The microcapsule shell is constructed as a composite material comprising multiple polymer layers with different properties. The inner layer provides mechanical strength and resistance to physical stress, while the outer layer offers chemical resistance and thermal stability. This composite structure enables the microcapsules to withstand the harsh conditions of solid consumer product formulations while maintaining fragrance integrity.
2Reliability
If microcapsules are designed for stability, then protection against damage is improved, but targeted release of fragrance is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the microcapsule shell are designed with distinct properties to fulfill different functions. The inner layer is optimized for mechanical strength and stability to protect the fragrance core, while the outer layer is designed with controlled permeability and responsiveness to environmental triggers for targeted release. This spatial differentiation of properties allows simultaneous achievement of stability and controlled release.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer polymer layer of the microcapsule shell is designed to dynamically respond to environmental conditions such as pH changes, temperature variations, or mechanical stress during product application. This dynamic behavior enables the shell to transition from a protective state during storage to a release-permissive state during use, achieving both stability and targeted release.
3Reliability
If complex multi-step preparation processes are used, then microcapsule performance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microcapsule shell is segmented into multiple layers, each formed through a separate deposition step. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently for specific functions (mechanical strength, chemical resistance, controlled release) while maintaining a relatively simple overall process flow. The layer-by-layer construction enables precise control over shell properties without requiring complex multi-step procedures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The multi-layered microcapsules provide enhanced stability and efficient release of fragrances in solid consumer products, protecting against mechanical, chemical, and thermal damage during formulation, ensuring consistent fragrance delivery.
Implementation Method 1
wherein at least one layer is a polyurethane layer
Implementation Method 2
at least one layer is one of a melamine-formaldehyde layer or a phenolic resin layer
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the field of perfumed particles in particular for solid consumer product formulations such as textile care products or the like. More specifically, the present invention relates to microcapsules and a process for the preparation of microcapsules. Moreover, the present invention relates to microcapsules obtained by the process. The present invention further relates to a consumer product comprising at least one microcapsule according to the invention and the use of microcapsules for perfuming a consumer product according to the invention.