Encapsulants are materials used to create a seal around an object for protection or to hide it. Examples include medicine capsules, acrylic cases for keepsakes, and capsules for hiding valuables or documents in cornerstones.
Encapsulants are any type of material that can be used to create an envelope around another material. An encapsulant can be a permanent seal around an object that limits or eliminates the ability to see the encased object, or it can function as a protective layer that allows the object to be viewed, but not directly handled. Today, the encapsulant concept is used in many different industries and provides a number of commercial products that many consumers rely on.
One of the most common examples of an encapsulant can be found in nearly every residential medicine cabinet. Over-the-counter medications, such as headache remedies, are often available in capsule form. The capsules provide housing for the correct drug and dissolve easily after being swallowed. This type of encapsulant is a temporary means of keeping the drug fresh and potent and only begins to break down after the need for the encapsulation is no longer needed.
Other types of encapsulant perform different functions. Clear acrylic is often used as a medium to permanently enclose a favorite object, such as a photograph, jewelry, or some other keepsake. As the acrylic capsule effectively creates a barrier between the contained item and the outside environment, the item is protected from damage. At the same time, the rated object is still available for viewing.
An encapsulant is also often used as a means of hiding objects for a period of time. Valuables can be encapsulated in resin, ceramic, or even concrete so that the item cannot be found. In this case, the encapsulant will protect the object from both the environment and visual detection and will remain intact until an external force is used to break into the capsule.
An encapsulating agent is often employed when cornerstones are being installed for new buildings. Typically, the cornerstone will contain an empty space where documents and other items relating to the year of construction can be hidden. In order to offer additional protection from the elements and thus preserve the integrity of the objects, an airtight capsule will be created around the objects. This ensures that the items will still be in pristine condition when the cornerstone is opened in the future.
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