Controlled-release herbicides via encapsulation and electrostatic spray drying
Innovative herbicide formulation using biodegradable nanoparticle shells and electrostatic spray drying to enhance UV protection and controlled release. This scalable process improves adhesion, reduces volatilization, and preserves active integrity, offering versatile application formats.
Overview
This innovative approach to herbicide formulation involves encapsulating herbicides in biodegradable nanoparticle/polymer shells and converting them into redispersible dry powders using electrostatic spray drying (ESD). This method offers enhanced UV protection and controlled release, improving adhesion to leaves and soil while reducing volatilization and delaying photodegradation. The technology preserves the active ingredients without exposure to heat or oxygen, making it suitable for both liquid and solid formulations compatible with standard application equipment.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Biodegradable nanoparticle/polymer shells provide UV shielding and diffusion/hydrolysis-controlled release.
- Electrostatic spray drying performed at low temperatures under nitrogen and in darkness to prevent degradation.
- Redispersible powders fit both liquid and solid formulations, compatible with standard adjuvants.
- Industrially scalable process preserving the active ingredient's integrity.
Applications:
- Agriculture: Enhanced herbicide formulations for improved efficacy and environmental safety.
- Compatible with standard agricultural equipment for ease of use.
Validation procedures:
- Physicochemical characterization: SEM/TEM, DLS, BET analysis.
- Stability and release assays: UV-aging, photolysis kinetics, hydrolysis/diffusion profiles.
- Application performance and biological validation through controlled bioassays.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at a TRL 4, having been validated under laboratory conditions and ready for further field testing and optimization. The process is industrially scalable and aims for environmental safety through the use of biodegradable materials.
About Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)
KU Leuven is a large comprehensive public research university in Leuven, Belgium, anchored by a major academic medical center and a broad multidisciplinary profile. Industry engages through co-located facilities and shared labs, including access to advanced cleanrooms and prototyping via imec’s Leuven campus. Integration with UZ Leuven supports clinical partnerships and data-rich trials, while research and technology parks around the city connect companies with faculty and student talent. Research is backed by competitive European and Belgian funding, including the European Commission and the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO). KU Leuven Research & Development manages IP, licensing, and spin-off formation, offering standardized agreements and dedicated partnership managers.
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