Microencapsulation definition from the World Book Encyclopedia

Microencapsulation is the process of enclosing a substance inside a miniature capsule. Such capsules are called microcapsules. The substance inside the microcapsule is usually a solid or a liquid, though a gas may also be used. The capsule wall is made of gelatin, wax, or another natural substance, or of plastic.

Microencapsulation is used to make scratch-and-sniff stickers and perfume strips used in advertisements. When a person scratches the sticker or perfume strip, some of the microcapsules break, releasing a scent.

Some microcapsules are designed to deliver chemicals slowly over time. They help regulate the release in the body of aspirin and other drugs. By using a single application of microencapsulated pesticides, a farmer can control weed growth or harmful insects for up to several months.

Ronald J. Versic

 

From THE WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA
(c) 2004 World Book, Inc. By Permission of the publisher
www.worldbook.com



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