Capsules with Gel Matrix for High Active Ingredient Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing encapsulation methods for high-content flavoring agents or fragrances are microbially unstable in a wet state, leading to unintentional release and loss of active ingredients during the drying process, and fail to achieve optimal release upon heating or exposure to shearing forces.
Innovation Solution
Development of capsules comprising a gelable substance, an emulsifier, and a filler, with the active ingredient dispersed in an emulsion, forming a stable matrix that prevents release during drying and allows controlled release upon mechanical stress, such as brushing or rubbing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional encapsulation methods are used to achieve high active ingredient content, then the capsules can contain flavoring agents or fragrances, but the capsules become microbially unstable in a wet state leading to unintentional release and loss of active ingredients during drying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite capsule wall structure consisting of multiple layers with different functions: an inner layer containing the active ingredient dispersed in a gel matrix, and an outer layer providing microbial stability. This composite structure allows high active ingredient content while preventing microbial degradation and unintentional release during the drying process.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule employs a thin film wall structure that is flexible enough to allow controlled release upon mechanical stress (brushing, rubbing) while maintaining integrity during storage and application. The thin film design enables high active ingredient concentration without compromising capsule stability.
2Quantity of substance
If the capsules are designed for high active ingredient content, then they can provide strong cosmetic or pharmaceutical effect, but the active ingredients are unintentionally released during drying process
Solution Approach 1:
The thin film capsule wall maintains structural integrity during the drying process, preventing premature release of the active ingredient. The film is designed to be mechanically stable under drying conditions but responsive to mechanical stress during application, enabling controlled release while minimizing loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transition of the gel matrix upon drying, where the gel structure stabilizes as water evaporates, trapping the active ingredient in a fixed matrix. This parameter change from wet gel to dry gel state prevents active ingredient loss during the drying process while maintaining high loading capacity.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional capsules are used, then they can be produced with standard methods, but they fail to achieve optimal release upon heating or exposure to shearing forces
Solution Approach 1:
The gel matrix undergoes parameter changes in response to external stimuli: heating causes gel softening or phase transition that facilitates active ingredient release, while mechanical shearing forces disrupt the gel structure. These parameter changes enable optimal release performance under different application conditions while maintaining ease of manufacture through standard encapsulation processes.
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 capsules maintain a high active ingredient content and stability, ensuring controlled release of encapsulated substances in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications, even in water-based products, without significant loss during drying.
Implementation Method 1
capsules, comprising (a) at least one gelable substance
Implementation Method 2
the active ingredient (d) being dispersed in an emulsion comprising the gelable substance (a), the emulsifier (b), and the filler (c)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to (dried) capsules with a high active-ingredient or active-substance content, to the use of the capsules in cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical compositions and to the production of the capsules.