MICROCAPSULES Meaning and
Definition
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Microcapsules are tiny spherical structures consisting of a core and a shell that surrounds the core, with sizes ranging from a few micrometers to a few millimeters. The core of a microcapsule can contain various substances such as liquid, solid particles, or gases. The shell, also known as the wall or membrane, acts as a protective barrier and is typically made of polymers, lipids, or proteins.
Microencapsulation is the process of forming microcapsules, usually through techniques like coacervation, spray drying, or emulsion polymerization. Coacervation involves the separation of a polymer from a liquid into a coacervate phase, which then coats the core material to form a shell. Spray drying involves atomizing the core material into small droplets and then coating them with a shell-forming material. Emulsion polymerization involves the polymerization of monomers dispersed in an emulsion to form a shell around the core material.
Microcapsules find applications in various fields such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, cosmetics, and food industries. In pharmaceuticals, microcapsules are used for controlled drug release, protecting sensitive drugs from degradation, or targeted delivery. In textiles, microcapsules can be embedded in fabrics to provide functionalities like fragrance release, stain resistance, or moisture management. In cosmetics, they can deliver active ingredients to the skin, improve stability, or provide long-lasting effects. In the food industry, microcapsules can be used to encapsulate flavors, vitamins, or bioactive compounds, enhancing the sensory experience or nutritional value of food products.
Overall, microcapsules are versatile microscopic carriers that offer controlled-release, protection, or targeted delivery of various substances, contributing to advancements in multiple industries.
Common Misspellings for MICROCAPSULES
- nicrocapsules
- kicrocapsules
- jicrocapsules
- mucrocapsules
- mjcrocapsules
- mkcrocapsules
- mocrocapsules
- m9crocapsules
- m8crocapsules
- mixrocapsules
- mivrocapsules
- mifrocapsules
- midrocapsules
- miceocapsules
- micdocapsules
- micfocapsules
- mictocapsules
- mic5ocapsules
- mic4ocapsules
- micricapsules
Etymology of MICROCAPSULES
The word "microcapsules" is derived from two main components: "micro-" and "capsules".
1. The prefix "micro-" comes from the Greek word "mikros" (μικρός), meaning "small" or "tiny". It is often used to indicate something on a small scale in terms of size or magnitude.
2. The word "capsules" is derived from the Latin word "capsula", which means "a little box". In its original sense, a capsule referred to a small container, usually with an outer shell or covering.
When combined, the term "microcapsules" refers to small or tiny capsules. These capsules are typically tiny spheres that contain substances embedded or enclosed within them. They are often used in various fields, including medicine, food technology, and cosmetics for encapsulating and delivering active ingredients, flavors, fragrances, or drugs.
