Fluidised bed and spouted bed processes by Glatt offer manufacturers almost unlimited possibilities in terms of optimised particle design and the functionalisation of ingredients, the properties of which can be fine-tuned using spray granulation, agglomeration, microencapsulation and film, lipid and hotmelt coating.
The poster reports a case study involving the spray granulation of a solution using continuous fluidized bed and spouted processing.
Based on various experiments in laboratory and pilot scale a statistical process model was derived based on artificial neural networks. A parameter study and sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the main process conditions and formulation variables. The multi-dimensional model of the process supported the optimization of product properties (e.g. particle size, particle sphericity) and related process conditions (e.g. product temperature, spray rate).
Sensitive raw materials, especially those that are volatile or of natural origin, require particularly gentle process conditions. Spray granulation, spray coating and (micro)encapsulation procedures have proven to be methods of choice, as they enable high yields, low temperatures and bespoke properties.
Innovative Process Technologies for Customized Functional Ingredients and Beverage Powder Mixes: At the 27th International Exhibition for Food, Beverages, Food Raw Materials in Moscow, Glatt will present innovative fluidized bed and spouted bed technologies to dry, agglomerate, granulate and particle coat various ingredients for sophisticated applications. These ingredients may require specific particle sizes or shapes, optimum solubility, compressibility or the functional protection provided by active ingredients or improved stability via protective coatings.
Powdery substances often cause problems during dosing, filling and transport because of their high dust content and poor flowability. Low solubilities and dispersing properties also impair the application of the end product. With the help of fluidised bed spray agglomeration, the size distribution and structure of difficult-to-process particles can be specifically adjusted and improved.
Phytochemicals are increasingly found in many food, chemical and agricultural items. Product and process optimization is becoming ever-more important in all of these industries, with a focus on quality, manufacturing efficiency, stability and formulation costs. Various processes can be used to deliver products with a compact structure. During process development, the most suitable procedures and equipment must be selected, considering the specific project conditions. Case studies, as discussed, can help process engineers and product developers to assess plant configurations in an efficient manner to meet a customer’s specific project requirements.
Microcapsules provide an excellent way to extend the shelf-lives of essential oils, vitamins, flavors and many other active ingredients, and protect them from external influences. A key consideration, however, is process optimization, which plays a decisive role in the quality of the ingredients and their release profiles.
Essential oils are volatile substances that are susceptible to oxidation and light. For protection and easier handling, as well as for better dosing and targeted release properties, these substances are increasingly offered and used by various industries in an encapsulated and often free-flowing form.
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