Micro- and Nano-containers for Smart Applications

This book summarizes the recent advancements and trends in encapsulation of micro- and nanocontainers for smart materials applications, covering preparation, properties, and future prospects in pharmaceuticals, textiles, biomedical, food packaging, composites, friction/wear, phase change materials, and coatings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 413 pages
Publication date: 12 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the recent advancements and trends in encapsulation of micro- and nanocontainers for applications in smart materials. It provides a thorough exploration of the fundamentals of processing and techniques for encapsulation, with a particular focus on preparation, properties, applications, and the promising future prospects of encapsulation processes for smart applications across various industries. This invaluable resource is designed to benefit academics, researchers, scientists, engineers, and students engaged in the field of smart materials.

Encapsulation involves the confinement of materials within a protective shell or matrix to enhance their properties and performance. It plays a crucial role in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, textiles, biomedical, food packaging, composites, friction/wear, phase change materials, and coatings. By encapsulating active ingredients, sensors, or other components, smart materials can be designed to respond to specific environmental conditions, stimuli, or signals, leading to improved functionality and durability.

The book begins by introducing the basic principles of encapsulation, including the selection of suitable materials, preparation methods, and characterization techniques. It then discusses the key properties of encapsulated materials, such as their barrier properties, stability, and release behavior. The authors explore various encapsulation techniques, such as solvent-based, spray-drying, and melt-drying, and their applications in different industries.

In the pharmaceutical sector, encapsulation is used to improve the stability and bioavailability of drugs. Active ingredients can be encapsulated within micro- or nanocontainers to protect them from degradation, enhance their solubility, and control their release rate. This approach allows for targeted drug delivery, reducing side effects and improving patient outcomes.

In the textile industry, encapsulation is employed to enhance the properties of fabrics, such as water resistance, stain resistance, and thermal insulation. Nanocontainers can be incorporated into textile fibers to provide moisture-wicking properties, while microencapsulation can protect fabrics from UV radiation and environmental pollutants.

In the biomedical field, encapsulation is used to deliver drugs, vaccines, and other therapeutic agents to targeted cells or tissues. Nanocontainers can be designed to target specific cells or tissues, while microencapsulation can protect sensitive biomaterials from degradation and maintain their bioactivity.

In food packaging, encapsulation is used to extend the shelf life of food products and prevent spoilage. Active ingredients can be encapsulated within micro- or nanocontainers to protect them from oxidation, moisture, and other environmental factors. This approach also allows for the controlled release of flavors, fragrances, and nutrients, enhancing the sensory experience of food products.

In the composites industry, encapsulation is used to improve the properties of composite materials, such as their strength, durability, and thermal conductivity. Nanocontainers can be incorporated into composite matrices to enhance their mechanical properties, while microencapsulation can protect composite materials from degradation and environmental factors.

In the friction/wear industry, encapsulation is used to enhance the performance of friction and wear-resistant materials. Active ingredients can be encapsulated within micro- or nanocontainers to protect them from wear and tear, while microencapsulation can improve the lubricity and wear resistance of materials.

In the phase change materials industry, encapsulation is used to control the phase transition of materials and enhance their properties. Active ingredients can be encapsulated within micro- or nanocontainers to control their release rate and temperature, while microencapsulation can protect phase change materials from degradation and environmental factors.

In the coatings industry, encapsulation is used to improve the durability and performance of coatings. Active ingredients can be encapsulated within micro- or nanocontainers to protect them from degradation and environmental factors, while microencapsulation can improve the adhesion and durability of coatings.

The book also discusses the future prospects of encapsulation processes for smart applications. The authors highlight the potential for developing new materials and technologies that can enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and safety of encapsulation processes. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with encapsulation in emerging industries, such as renewable energy, waste management, and environmental remediation.

In conclusion, this comprehensive book provides a valuable resource for academics, researchers, scientists, engineers, and students in the field of smart materials. It offers a thorough understanding of the recent achievements and trends in encapsulation of micro- and nanocontainers, with a particular focus on their applications in pharmaceuticals, textiles, biomedical, food packaging, composites, friction/wear, phase change materials, and coatings. By exploring the fundamentals of processing and techniques for encapsulation, the book equips readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop innovative smart materials that can address the pressing needs of today's industries.

Weight: 799g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811681455
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022