Microencapsulation was invented in the 1950's by National Cash Register in Dayton, Ohio for the carbonless copy paper industry. From there the uses for the technology seemed almost endless and a wide variety of industries began to utilize different shell materials, internal phases and techniques to manufacture microcapsules for their specific end use. Lipo Technologies Inc. was incorporated in 1990 and we are a privately held company. Before we became Lipo Technologies we were Djinni Industries, whose claim to fame was encapsulated liquid crystal for mood rings and thermometers. Once we became Lipo we expanded our technology platforms and our customer base. At LTI we consider our true advantage our versatility. We think of ourselves as a solution provider and we come to you with our "toolbox" to help you solve your toughest production dilemmas. Please visit our website to get a brief overview of just some of the technologies we utilize and contact us to discuss your project in further detail.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Some FAQs on Microencapsulation

1. What are the mechanisms of rupture for your microcapsules?
There are many different ways to rupture our microcapsules and the following is a non-exhaustive list of examples of the most common methods of rupture:
  • Mechanical Shear
  • pH
  • Temperature (Melting or Bursting due to internal pressure)
  • Slow release over time
  • Dissolution when a solvent/chemical is added
  • Pressure

2. How do we know what the best microencapsulation system to use is?
That is where our expertise comes in to play. We will speak to you about your custom application and ask you some very specific questions about your expectations and desires and we will determine the best system for you to begin your evaluation. The first microcapsule sample we send you may not be exactly what you need, so we encourage open communication with our customers. We work the best when our customers offer us honest feedback and results from their testing so that we can determine how we can make adjustments on our end to find a solution for you.

3. Why would I want to use microencapsulation?
Each different type of microcapsule has its own properties which contribute to its benefits, limitations and advantages. In general, when a material has been microencapsulated it is to provide the following types of benefits:
  • To provide oxidation stability
  • To hold onto volatile materials
  • To separate incompatible materials
  • To convert a liquid to a solid
  • To provide a targeted or sustained release of a substance
  • To improve flow characteristics / Ease of use
  • For functionality or for pure aesthetics
We will have a discussion with you on your final application and we will take into consideration all of the chemical and physical obstacles that the microcapsule will need to endure and we will help you to choose the best microcapsule to start your evaluation, while taking into consideration the features, benefits and limitations of the microencapsulation system

For more facts visit our Frequently Asked Questions section.
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