Microencapsulation process: methods, properties, and applications
摘要
Microencapsulation immobilization is a powerful technique that has been widely used in numerous fields. This method is based on the concept of immobilizing an active reagent within polymeric materials and thus forming a stable bioactive complex. The modern concept of immobilization encompasses all techniques in which the movement of the immobilized reagent is restricted to a defined volume. Recently, the immobilization of cells and enzymes has attracted increasing interest in biotechnology. This growing interest is largely based on the expanding use of such immobilized biocatalysts both in analytical and preparative processes and in quality-of-life technology, especially in medicine, health care, and the living environment. Although such technology has truly meant the onset of a new era in these fields, no universal methods have been proposed that overcome all the problems associated with the different types of immobilization. However, significant advancements have been made in the microencapsulation immobilization method, which is widely used in biotechnology. The objective of this review is to explore in detail the microencapsulation concept, methods, potential applications, conclusions, and future perspectives of this method.