Temperature-Sensitive Fragrance Microcapsules with Double Capsule Walls: A Study on Preparation and Sustained Release...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Textile Chemistry

Background:

• Microcapsules protect core materials from degradation, with double-walled structures offering improved stability and functionality.
• Temperature-sensitive microcapsules enable controlled release of active ingredients, enhancing product applicability.
• Gelatin and a gum arabic-N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) composite were explored for double-walled microcapsule fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize double-walled microcapsules for fragrance delivery.
• To investigate the impact of gum arabic to NIPAM ratio on microcapsule properties.
• To evaluate the stability, release characteristics, and application of fragrance microcapsules.

Main Methods:

• A complex coalescence method was employed to create double-walled microcapsules.
• Gelatin served as the inner wall, while a composite of gum arabic and N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) formed the outer wall.
• Characterization included analysis of core loading, yield, thermal stability, solvent/pH stability, and sustained release from cotton fabrics.

Main Results:

• Microcapsules prepared with a 10:1 ratio of NIPAM to gum arabic exhibited optimal temperature responsiveness.
• The double-walled structure enhanced microcapsule stability and provided controlled release of lavender fragrance oil.
• Treated cotton fabrics demonstrated sustained fragrance release, particularly in response to temperature changes.

Conclusions:

• Double-walled microcapsules utilizing gelatin and a gum arabic-NIPAM composite are effective for controlled fragrance delivery.
• The developed microcapsules offer enhanced stability and temperature-triggered release, suitable for textile applications.
• This technology can provide a long-lasting fresh scent in clothing, especially during warm weather conditions.