Monica C Santa-Maria

Title: Innovations by Monica C Santa-Maria

Introduction

Monica C Santa-Maria is an accomplished inventor based in Davis, CA (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of microencapsulation, focusing on the controlled release of biological moieties and chemicals. With a total of 2 patents, her work is paving the way for advancements in various applications.

Latest Patents

Monica's latest patents include a groundbreaking method for encapsulating biological moieties and chemicals in polymers that are cross-linked by multivalent ions. This innovative spray dry method allows for the microencapsulation of bioactive and chemical cargo in a stable polymer matrix. The process results in small particle sizes that can be easily scaled up for industrial applications. The formulation involves a salt of an acid-soluble multivalent ion, which is neutralized with a volatile base, along with one or more monomers that cross-link in the presence of these ions. Upon atomization, the volatile base vaporizes, leading to a reduction in pH and the temporal release of multivalent ions that facilitate the cross-linking of monomers to form capsules. The incorporation of additional polymers or hydrophobic compounds allows for the control of hydration properties, thereby regulating the release of encapsulated compounds. Furthermore, operational parameters can be adjusted to influence capsule properties such as particle size and distribution.

Career Highlights

Monica C Santa-Maria is affiliated with the University of California, where she continues to innovate and contribute to her field. Her research focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of microencapsulation techniques, which have broad implications in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and other industries.

Collaborations

Monica has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Tina Jeoh Zicari and Herbert Benson Scher. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that enhances the research and development of innovative solutions.

Conclusion

Monica C Santa-Maria's work in microencapsulation represents a significant advancement in the field, with her patents showcasing innovative methods for controlled release applications. Her contributions are expected to have a lasting impact on various industries, driving further research and development in this area.