Microfluidics technology poised to develop functional cosmetics
precision morphologies in particles with minimal size variation,
has been specially developed for the cosmetics industry by
Cardiff-based company Q Chip - a development that is likely to aid
the formulation of increasingly complex products.
Said to have a number of applications in the development of new functional particles for host of toiletries and beauty products, the microparticle technology could provide cosmetic manufacturers with a host of applications for functional ingredients such as vitamins or proteins.
Through precise particle engineering Q Chip claims the technology can encapsulate active ingredients, create monodisperse filaments for improved texture and feel of hair care products and offer a more sophisticated manufacturing process for soft gel microspheres.
"It is no exaggeration to say that our technology has the potential to have a major impact on a cosmetic company's business, and with many potential applications in the cosmetic industries the opportunities are far-ranging" said Dr Jo Daniels, Q Chip's Business Development director.
"For example encapsulation is extremely important for the delivery of vitamins. Our particle engineering process allows the sophisticated control of both particle size and encapsulate thickness, enhancing the preferred characteristics of the end product - this gives a real indication of the power and possibilities of the technology."
Q Chip, which is based in Wales and specialises in precision particle engineering, says that its microfluidic system exploits the surface properties of polymer based substrates enabling the large-scale, precision manufacture of high value microparticles, which would not be possible if performed in conventional large volume reactions. The company also claims that the technology can be applied across a range of product types and that its research team is currently seeking collaboration opportunities with UK and international cosmetic companies.
Microfluidics is the science of designing, manufacturing, and formulating devices and processes that deal with volumes of fluid. Although it has a diverse array of applications for a host of manufactured liquid products, for the cosmetics industry it has helped in the formulation of increasingly complex and chemically sensitive ingredients.
