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: Paperback / softback
Length: 413 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

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

Encapsulation is a crucial process in the development of smart materials, as it involves the confinement of active components within a protective shell to enhance their performance and stability. The book begins by introducing the basic principles of encapsulation, including the selection of suitable materials, preparation methods, and characterization techniques. It then proceeds to discuss the various types of encapsulation techniques, such as solvent-based encapsulation, spray drying, and phase-change encapsulation, and their applications in smart materials.

One of the key chapters in the book explores the use of micro- and nanocontainers in the pharmaceutical industry. It discusses the challenges faced by the pharmaceutical industry in developing effective drug delivery systems and the role of encapsulation in addressing these challenges. The book provides an in-depth analysis of the different types of micro- and nanocontainers used in drug delivery, such as liposomes, nanoparticles, and microspheres, and their properties and applications. It also discusses the challenges associated with the stability and release of drugs in these containers and the strategies employed to overcome these challenges.

Another important application of micro- and nanocontainers is in the field of textiles. The book discusses the use of encapsulation in enhancing the properties of textiles, such as their moisture-wicking ability, thermal insulation, and antibacterial properties. It provides an overview of the different types of encapsulation techniques used in textiles, such as spray drying, melt-blown, and electrospinning, and their applications in various textile products, such as sportswear, medical uniforms, and home textiles.

In the biomedical field, micro- and nanocontainers are used for the delivery of drugs, vaccines, and other therapeutic agents. The book discusses the challenges faced by the biomedical industry in developing effective drug delivery systems and the role of encapsulation in addressing these challenges. It provides an in-depth analysis of the different types of micro- and nanocontainers used in biomedical applications, such as liposomes, nanoparticles, and microspheres, and their properties and applications. It also discusses the challenges associated with the bioavailability and stability of drugs in these containers and the strategies employed to overcome these challenges.

Food packaging is another area where micro- and nanocontainers are being increasingly used. The book discusses the use of encapsulation in improving the safety, shelf life, and sensory properties of food products. It provides an overview of the different types of encapsulation techniques used in food packaging, such as spray drying, vacuum drying, and hot-melt extrusion, and their applications in various food products, such as snacks, beverages, and fresh produce.

Composites, friction/wear, phase change materials, and coatings are other industries where micro- and nanocontainers are finding applications. The book discusses the use of encapsulation in enhancing the properties of these materials, such as their durability, wear resistance, and thermal stability. It provides an overview of the different types of encapsulation techniques used in these industries, such as solvent-based encapsulation, spray drying, and phase-change encapsulation, and their applications in various composite materials, friction/wear components, phase change materials, and coatings.

The book also includes a chapter on the future prospects of encapsulation in smart materials. It discusses the emerging trends in encapsulation technology, such as the use of biodegradable and renewable materials, the development of smart encapsulation systems that can respond to environmental stimuli, and the integration of encapsulation with other smart materials technologies, such as sensors and actuators. It also highlights the potential applications of encapsulation in various industries, such as energy storage, waste management, and transportation.

In conclusion, this comprehensive book provides a thorough and up-to-date exploration of the recent achievements and trends in encapsulation of micro- and nanocontainers for applications in smart materials. It is a valuable resource for academics, researchers, scientists, engineers, and students in the field of smart materials. By providing a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of processing and techniques involved in encapsulation, as well as the applications and future prospects of this process, the book enables readers to develop innovative and effective solutions for smart materials applications.

Weight: 646g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811681486
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022