Microcapsule functionalization enables rate-determining release from cellulose nonwovens for long-term performance

Functional textiles is a rapidly growing product segment in which sustained release of actives often plays a key role. Failure to sustain the release results in costs due to premature loss of functionality and resource inefficiency. Conventional application methods such as impregnation lead to an excessive and uncontrolled release, which - for biocidal actives - results in environmental pollution. In this study, microcapsules are presented as a means of extending the release from textile materials. The hydrophobic model substance pyrene is encapsulated in poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) microcapsules which subsequently are loaded into cellulose nonwovens using a solution blowing technique. The release of encapsulated pyrene is compared to that of two conventional functionalization methods: surface and bulk impregnation. The apparent diffusion coefficient is 100 times lower for encapsulated pyrene compared to impregnated pyrene. This clearly demonstrates the rate-limiting barrier properties added by the microcapsules, extending the potential functionality from hours to weeks.