About us

With over 30 years of experience in the field of microencapsulation, the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP is a competent partner for all questions related to microencapsulation. This includes the synthesis and/or modification of microcapsule wall materials, the evaluation of suitable microencapsulation technologies and their adaptation to specific tasks, the characterization of polymeric wall materials and microcapsules as well as the formulation of microcapsules and their applications.

We offer our know-how for both reactive and non-reactive encapsulation technologies, e.g. polycondensation, polyaddition, in-situ polymerization, phase separation, solvent evaporation and extraction, spray drying and spray coating. We use natural polymers (e.g. cellulose and starch derivatives) and synthetic polymers (e.g. amino resin, polyurethane, polyamide) for the synthesis of customized microencapsulated additives and active ingredients. Possible applications include the encapsulation of reactive components such as catalysts and initiators, polymer additives such as flame retardants and pigments, or cosmetic ingredients, food additives, flavors and fragrances. In addition, we have numerous methods for characterizing the microcapsules.

Particle applications

Based on our profound experience in polymerization technology, we synthesize tailor-made (micro)particles that can be used for various applications. We are happy to support you in the development of your products.

Our services:

• feasibility studies for microencapsulation of solid, waxy and liquid active ingredients and additives.
• scale-up of reactive and non-reactive encapsulation processes
• determination of suitable conditions for production on a (semi-)technical scale
• production of up to 30 kg microcapsules (depending on the microencapsulation process)
• feasibility studies on microcapsule-containing formulations (e.g. compounding into polymers)
• biodegradation studies for polymers, particles and microcapsules