Controlled release textile structure

Controlled release of active agents from microcapsules embedded in textile structures... 

This chapter wdl outline a variety of active agents used in microencapsulation for textile-based systems. The importance of controlled release and microencapsulation will be addressed as well. Methods of embedding microcapsules into textile structures and the parameters of interest will be further elaborated upon. In addition, the chapter will give an overview of the controlled release of different microencapsulated active agents from textiles. These topics are necessary to understand the challenges that researchers face in developing textile structures with embedded microcapsules for controlled release. 

A design of textile structures intended for controlled release of active agents could be categorized depending on the incorporation of the active agent into the substrate. Possible approaches are schematically shown in Fig. 5.3. 

In addition, for encapsulated material to be released in a controlled manner, mechanical properties of microcapsules are of considerable significance. This particularly refers to microcapsules embedded in textile structures intended for the topical release of an active agent, when they demand sufficient stability to withstand wear and tear (Neubauer et al., 2014). 

Controlled release of microencapsulated active agents from textile structure... 

A demand for longer release of active agents is always a beneficial aspect of controlled release systems. Optimizing the composition of the polymer wall of microcapsules and the encapsulation method should be reflected in a better release control. Special attention should be paid to stimuli-responsive polymers that could impart additional functionality to textile-based controlled release vehicles. These polymers have found wide application in free form and the challenge would be to expand their use in the form of microcapsules attached to the textile structures. 

However, functions of these smart textile stmctures could still be improved and their role optimized. Bringing the textile/microcapsule systems for controlled release of active agents to a higher level demands a multidisciplinary approach. Considering all aspects of the controlled release systems such as active agent formulations, microcapsule polymer wall composition, encapsulation approach, and embedding loaded microcapsules into textile structures could push the limits of smart textiles even further. 

Nanotechnology has improved the technical properties of fibres in textiles and coatings in such areas as electrical conductivity, magnetic susceptibility, interaction with light, photonics, chemical protection, friction control, abrasion resistance, waste water and oil repellence, soil release and biocompatibility. Tailoring and controlling structures on the nano-scale level is a key factor in the development of advanced materials or structural components in multifunctional applications. Some finishing processes in... 

The creation of textile based pharmaceutical agent depots is a further ther y application. The release of the agent can happen automatically or / and controlled. During an actual research project some textile polymer covered conductive structures are tested. It is possible to storage SO to 500 mg acetylsalicylic acid. The amount depends on the type of finish and the material which is coated. /S/... 

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