Overview:
A yet2 client is seeking novel delivery, stabilization, and encapsulation technologies for functional chemical compounds (e.g., non-polar and solvent-like complex mixtures) that enable protection, handling, and controlled release under defined conditions.
In addition to technology solutions, the client is also interested in accessing expertise to enhance understanding of relevant approaches, particularly at the intersection of chemistry, materials science, and colloidal science.
Solutions may involve novel materials and new chemistries, matrix systems, processing routes, or release mechanisms that extend beyond conventional oil-based encapsulation approaches. Any solution should embrace a sustainable approach, resulting in materials that cannot be considered as a microplastic. This opportunity is open to early-stage and low-TRL technologies, including academic research, start-ups, and cross-industry solutions not traditionally applied to this challenge.
Areas of Interest
Stabilization Prior to Encapsulation
- Technologies enabling stabilization of emulsions or dispersions prior to encapsulation. Systems with capability for complex, non-polar (solvent-like) actives are required.
Encapsulation Matrices and Chemistries
- Novel synthetic or naturally derived matrix systems, including polymeric, hybrid, or bio-based materials
- Alternative crosslinking or network chemistries, including low-toxicity, bio-inspired, or naturally derived approaches
- Platforms enabling tuneable permeability, degradation behaviour, or release kinetics
Matrix materials compatible with evolving regulatory and sustainability requirements, including biodegradability considerations
Release and Delivery Mechanisms
Novel delivery mechanisms are of interest, including but not limited to:
- Humidity- or solubility-triggered release
- Mechanical or abrasion-based activation
- Photodegradable or light-responsive systems
- Enzymatic or biologically mediated release
- Time-dependent or self-degrading delivery systems
Processing-Enabled Technologies
- Spray-drying or spray-congealing approaches
- Electro-spraying or electro-hydrodynamic methods
- Supercritical COâ‚‚-based encapsulation
- Other emerging particle-forming or structuring processes
Alternative Energy Inputs
- Encapsulation or delivery technologies enabled by alternative energy inputs or fields that reduce overall energy demand compared with conventional thermal or mechanical processes
- Approaches may include electromagnetic, acoustic, or other non-conventional methods (e.g., microwave-assisted systems)
Cross-Industry Solutions of Interest
Including but not limited to:
- Food and beverage (incl. Nutraceuticals and functional foods)
- Home care and cleaning products
- Personal care and cosmetics
- Fragrance and flavour systems
- Industrial biotechnology
- Pharmaceuticals and healthcare
- Agriculture and controlled nutrient release
- Advanced materials and functional coatings
- Fabrics & Textiles
- Waste treatment and environmental technologies
Technologies developed for unrelated applications that may be adaptable to this challenge are strongly encouraged.
Desired Outcome
The client is open to a range of collaboration and commercialisation models, including joint development, and is specifically seeking to engage with groups beyond current networks that can introduce new ideas, capabilities, and expertise into the research programme.
Related TechNeeds:
- Seeking: High-End Polypropylene (PP) Grades and technologies related to PP production
- Tech Opportunity: Environmentally conscious raw materials for various chemical products, such as plastics, adhesives, and flavors/fragrances
- Seeking: New Approaches for Concentrate Management from Inland Desalination and Municipal Wastewater Reuse Systems
Image by Gemini AI
