Microencapsulated mosquito repellents and attractants for textiles and devices
Innovative microencapsulation technology uses natural essential oils and CO2-producing microorganisms to create efficient, long-lasting mosquito repellents for textiles and effective mosquito attractants for trapping devices.
Overview
This innovative solution leverages microencapsulation technology to enhance the efficiency and longevity of mosquito repellents and attractants. By encapsulating natural essential oils, such as lemongrass oil, the technology allows for a controlled, slow release, significantly extending the protective action against mosquitos. Additionally, the solution explores the integration of attractants, specifically CO2 produced by encapsulated microorganisms, into trapping devices, providing a dual approach to both repel and reduce mosquito populations effectively.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Repellents: Utilizes natural essential oils like lemongrass oil in encapsulated form, suitable for incorporation into textiles and furniture. This ensures prolonged protection through a controlled release mechanism.
- Attractants: Employs encapsulated CO2-producing microorganisms to continuously release CO2, enhancing the efficiency of mosquito trapping devices.
- Versatile applications: Can be integrated into various products such as curtains and pellets, offering flexibility in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, having been validated at a lab scale with further testing planned on actual mosquito efficacy. The next steps involve performance testing on mosquitos and optimizing formulations, for which the research team is seeking partners to collaborate.
About Fraunhofer Institute
Fraunhofer is a large, multi-site applied research organization based in Germany, operating a nationwide network of institutes and research units with a strong industry-facing mission. Its contract-research model aligns work to real manufacturing and deployment needs, with pilot lines, test labs, and demonstration facilities for validation and scale-up. Many institutes are integrated with nearby universities and regional industry clusters, enabling joint appointments, shared infrastructure, and fast talent pipelines. Research is supported by competitive European programs alongside German federal and state funding, complemented by extensive contract revenue from private-sector collaborations. A dedicated technology transfer function manages IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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