Microcapsules in solid matrix for perfect enclosure and protection of sensitive substances
Valuable substances that require special protection are often present in powder or even liquid form. This encapsulation process is used in particular for products and ingredients for the food industry. These include probiotics or essential oils, fragrances and flavors, for example. Micro-encapsulation in the fluid bed or spouted bed allows these substances to be embedded in matrix pellets, thus combining drying, granule formation and release control in a single step. The substances to be protected are emulsified and then gently granulated on the basis of spray granulation and thereby embedded homogeneously distributed in a compact protective matrix.
In the field of micro-encapsulation, Glatt has conducted various case studies on formulation and process optimization strategies based on encapsulation efficiency. Depending on the preferred principle, based on the properties of the customer’s active ingredients to be encapsulated, a wide range of available technical equipment can be customized in terms of cost, efficiency and formulation properties. In water-based matrix encapsulation, we focus on the solidification conditions as well as the crystallization behavior in lipid-based encapsulation, adapted to the particular material system for particle formation in fluid bed or spouted bed spray granulation processes.
Product properties and advantages of granules from micro-encapsulation by fluid bed or spouted bed at a glance:
- Adjustable Active Ingredient Content
- Dust-free, Round Pellets with Compact Structure
- Porous Granules due to Loading of Solid Excipients
- Various Carrier Systems
- Optimal Functionalization
- Excellent Flow Behavior
- Adjustable Particle Size
- Adjustable Particle Size Distribution
- Homogeneous Component Distribution
- Very Good Dosability
- Good Solubility
- Good Dispersibility
The micro-encapsulation process is carried out in fluid bed and spouted bed systems, preferably in continuous operation.
Substances in powder form must be sufficiently well dispersed in the matrix liquid, or insoluble liquids must be emulsified. During subsequent spray granulation, the finely dispersed valuable substances are fixed in the solid carrier matrix.
As an alternative to encapsulation in homogeneous, compact matrices, the spray liquid can also be sprayed onto carrier particles. Suitable base materials include application-compatible powders or inert carrier granules. The particle structure can be adjusted to meet specific requirements by varying the formulation and the process parameters.
Granules and pelltes produced by micro-encapsulation score – just like products from spray granulation – with properties such as high abrasion resistance, very good flowability, good solubility or optimum dosability. The dust-free granules have a dense surface structure and high bulk density, and their reduced surface area makes them less hygroscopic. Parameters such as particle size, residual moisture and solids content can be specifically influenced to achieve a wide variety of product properties. Due to their often round shape, the granules are also very suitable for subsequent coating for further functionalization.
From the product idea to production
Since micro-encapsulation processes start with the preparation of the liquid, we support our customers in developing the formulation and liquid preparation. The liquid can then be produced in a plant test at our technology center. Starting from laboratory scale, the product can be verified in pilot plants. Reliable scale-up enables the development of finished solutions on an industrial scale.
Volatile substances and oxygen-, moisture- or temperature-sensitive ingredients are a challenge for fluid preparation and processing. To overcome these challenges, we can change both the acting fluidization medium (nitrogen) and the process gas flow management (closed loop). We can also process liquids at gentle production temperatures (40°C) without negatively affecting the properties of the final product.
Through contract manufacturing at Glatt, your new powders, pellets or granules can be manufactured, filled, packaged and delivered directly in agreed quantities. As a plant manufacturer, Glatt provides all services from project initiation, development and realization through to turnkey production in your own plant.
