Microemulsions – for sustainable and resource‑efficient impregnation

Microemulsions are stable mixtures of oil and water, where surfactants reduce surface tension and enable the fine dispersion of oil droplets in the water phase. Our research focuses on water-based microemulsions for wood impregnation, as well as utilizing by-products from the forest industry in their formulation, contributing to more sustainable and resource-efficient solutions. 

Microemulsions – deep protection and wide applications

Due to their low surface tension and viscosity, microemulsions can effectively penetrate porous materials, making them particularly useful for wood impregnation. Their amphiphilic properties allow for the encapsulation and transport of hydrophobic biocides, which are deposited deep within the wood’s cellular structure to provide long-lasting protection against biological degradation. Unlike traditional impregnation methods, microemulsions require neither vacuum nor high pressure, simplifying the process while ensuring even and efficient distribution of protective agents. Beyond wood impregnation, microemulsions have diverse applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food industries, where their unique structure and stability enable innovative solutions. Through our research, we aim to develop sustainable and functional microemulsion systems for future materials and technologies.