Microencapsulation of laurel essential oil using beeswax and characterization of capsules

In this study, the carrier system properties and release behaviors of microcapsules prepared by using filled (internal gelation) and reticulated (external gelation) techniques for the microencapsulation of laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) essential oil with wax coating were evaluated comprehensively. Chemical analyses revealed that laurel essential oil presents a rich profile in terms of various compound groups such as monoterpenes, ketones, carboxylic acids and aromatic hydrocarbons. This multicomponent structure was evaluated as an important parameter of the formulation in terms of the efficiency of the carrier systems. Microcapsules produced by different encapsulation techniques were compared in terms of loading capacity (LC), encapsulation efficiency (EE) and production yield (PY). Wax-coated capsules (CB) obtained by the filled (internal gelation) method showed the highest values of LC (42.12%), EE (85.66%) and PY (87.87%). These values indicate that the filled method can protect the active ingredient by encapsulating it more effectively. The capsules obtained by the reticulated (external gelation) method offered a relatively lower carrying capacity but formed a more stable structure during production Controlled release tests were carried out at three different temperatures (25 °C, 35 °C, 45 °C) and it was demonstrated that the wax coating reduced the loss of essential oil. Compared to uncoated microcapsules, the release of essential oil was more controlled in the wax coated groups (CB and MB) and lower release rates were obtained despite the increase in temperature. Especially the wax coated filled microcapsules (CB) showed a superior performance in the preservation of volatile components with the lowest release percentages at all temperatures. The data obtained indicate that the capsules prepared by the filled method are more suitable for applications requiring controlled and slow release, while the reticulated method offers advantages in terms of structural stability. Wax coating was found to contribute positively for both methods, preventing oxidative loss of volatile components and increasing the durability of the microcapsule system. In conclusion, the strategic use of filled and reticulated methods with wax coating for the microencapsulation of laurel essential oil offers an effective approach for the development of functional carrier systems for different industrial fields. This study reveals that microencapsulation is a powerful technology for the protection and release control of volatile components.