Moisture-triggered lotion release from freeze-dried diaper depots
Innovative use of calcium-crosslinked alginate hydrogels to encapsulate and release hypoallergenic lotion in diapers upon moisture contact, enhancing skin care and comfort.
Overview
This innovative solution involves encapsulating hypoallergenic lotion within calcium-crosslinked alginate hydrogels, which are then freeze-dried to enable moisture-triggered release. This technology aims to enhance the comfort and skincare properties of diapers by releasing lotion when in contact with moisture from the body, providing long-term storage capabilities and targeted deposition in desired diaper locations.
Technical specifications
- Encapsulation Process: Uses biocompatible calcium-crosslinked alginate hydrogels to encapsulate hypoallergenic lotion.
- Freeze-drying: Both hydrogels and lotion are freeze-dried to remove water completely, allowing for long-term storage.
- Moisture-sensitive Release: Upon contact with body moisture, the system rehydrates, releasing the encapsulated lotion.
- Applications: Designed for use in diapers to improve skin care and reduce irritation.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4. Initial trials have been conducted using C57BL/6 mice models to evaluate the efficacy of the moisture-sensitive release mechanism. Future work involves optimizing the formulation and its integration into diaper products.
About Johns Hopkins Medicine
Johns Hopkins Medicine is an integrated academic medical center that unites the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine with a multi-hospital health system, headquartered in Baltimore and serving the Mid-Atlantic. Co-located clinical and research facilities support bench-to-bedside collaboration, powered by enterprise EHR data, biobanking, and shared core labs. A coordinated trials network spans tertiary and community hospitals, and a nearby research and technology park offers wet-lab space for industry partners in the Baltimore–Washington corridor. Research is sustained by strong NIH support alongside other U.S. federal agencies such as NSF and the Department of Defense. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, corporate alliances, and startup incubation.
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