Liquid-filled metal microcapsules.

A moisture-sensitive diisocyanate liquid is microencapsulated within a metal shell measuring less than 2 µm thick and 50 µm in diameter. This mild synthesis takes place through a series aqueous processing steps that occur at or near room temperature. Through a combination of emulsification, interfacial polymerization, and electroless plating, one can microencapsulate moisture- or air-sensitive chemicals within a metal seal. The liquid-filled metal microcapsules promise a number of advantages compared to conventional polymeric microencapsulation, including improved mechanical properties and improved barrier properties to gases and organic molecules.