ABSTRACT
Two primary components of microencapsulation development are process and materials selection. All combinations of shell or matrix material and core material or active ingredient require the selection of a compatible process. With over two dozen encapsulation processes, it is important to know the strengths and weaknesses of each when making a selection. The variety of encapsulation processes can be divided into four general categories, listed in Table 2.1: atomization, spray coating, coextrusion (annular jet atomization), and emulsion-based processes. Additional processes are listed that, while less common, are either emerging as new leading technologies or have been established as suitable processes worth consideration. Within these general categories, additional variations are available to achieve capsules of different sizes, morphologies, or materials. This list and the contents of this chapter are offered as an initial guide to be combined with the information in subsequent chapters regarding individual processes.
