Smart End-Uses of Microencapsulated Textile Substrates

From sheets and towels that smell fresh every day to disinfectant wipes and garments with insect repellent, microencapsulation has truly taken ofF in textile finishing. However, microencapsulation technology remains complex and relatively expensive, and is not considered to be a routine finish or a substitute for other commonly used techniques that can be accomplished by conventional means. 

Microencapsulation can be very expensive, with costs of up to 60 product on a 200-kg scale batch process. Although the price of these capsules is relatively high, adding extra cost to a textile substrate, the added value of the product is often easily recovered, with prices generally several-fold higher than for equivalent non-treated textiles. 

Although this technology provides unheard of longevity for such treatments through its active-release mechanisms, much additional research must be conducted in order to fully exploit its great benefits. 

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