Application of environmental scanning electron microscopy in the development of detergents and personal products

Environmental scanning electron microscopy enables the observation of samples in their natural state with no preparation. Unilever Research employs this technology in the research and development of detergents and personal products with much success. The results presented are from various studies which demonstrate the versatility and utility of the technique. Vacuum sensitive samples such as microcapsules were successfully characterized, the efficacy of dental products was shown by monitoring an enamel surface before and after treatment, and the performance of an adhesive was assessed by dynamic experimentation.