Essential Oil Microencapsulation for Antimicrobial Textiles
topic
Essential oils (thymol, carvacrol, tea tree oil) are microencapsulated in melamine-formaldehyde or polyurea shells (5–30 µm diameter, 60–80% core content) via in-situ polymerization, then applied to textiles at 5–15 g/m² with polyurethane binder via padding. Microcapsules rupture upon abrasion or pressure, releasing volatile biocides. Thymol (MIC 0.1–0.5 mg/mL) achieves 3–4 log reduction against S. aureus and Candida albicans (ISO 20743 and ISO 13629). Controlled vapor release between wear cycles provides residual antimicrobial activity. Wash durability of 15–25 cycles at 30°C limited by capsule detachment. Formaldehyde-free polyurea encapsulation meets GOTS and Oeko-Tex requirements for organic textile certifications. Fragrance release simultaneously provides deodorizing benefit.
Role
Natural, consumer-preferred antimicrobial and deodorizing solution for organic sportswear, baby textiles, and intimate apparel, delivering essential oil biocidal activity in a durable, controlled-release format compatible with eco-label certification.