From carbonless paper to 'scratch and sniff' fragrance sampling, microencapsulation technologies have found a broad range of industrial applications
The combination of a constant flow of innovative new techniques with wider application areas and an increased desire for product differentiation will drive growth in the use microencapsulation technologies in industrial markets, according to new research from international strategic market consultant Frost and Sullivan.
But, technology providers must choose their end application market with care to ensure sustained growth.
Gordon McManus, the Frost and Sullivan research analyst who authored the report explains: "Microencapsulation is a process technology, which can play an integral role in the products in which it is used.
The ability to isolate tiny amounts of a substance within a protective wall or matrix has played a crucial role in the development of some ground breaking products, such the temperature regulating clothing sold by Outlast and Frisby Technologies, and the electronic displays being developed by E Ink." The report is segmented into the following application areas: agrochemicals, cosmetics ingredients, food ingredients, printing and paper applications, adhesives, and textiles.
It highlights that not all hold equal attractiveness to companies seeking to provide a service in microencapsulation.
Forecast growth rates in the end-use markets range from negative figures to as much as 30%.
McManus concludes "there is much industry interest in the use of microencapsulation technologies.
Companies offering their expertise in these fields need to understand which market areas are most receptive to the increased use of microencapsulation techniques.
Several potentially high volume applications of the technology are still in development and the companies involved have strong intellectual property positions. In other markets, the end product manufacturers perform most of the microencapsulation themselves and there is little opportunity for companies outside the industry.
However, areas such as the cosmetics and food ingredients markets, where much microencapsulation is being performed by smaller technology providers, are very accessible to new companies and technologies." Frost and Sullivan says this is the first report to give an overview of the microencapsulation industry throughout Europe with market share and competitor analysis. Within the report there is a dedicated chapter which analyses the potential for each application area in terms of relative market attractiveness, degree of competition and relative market accessibility (eg, an assessment of the barriers to entry) and makes strategic recommendations for market participants.
