3D-printable polymer matrix with built-in sustained fragrance
This technology describes a method for 3D printing objects where individual printed units (voxels) are made from a specific class of polymers combining a high-molecular-weight polyol and an ionic monomer, tuned to a precise electrical charge density. What makes this distinctive is that the polymer matrix can carry a functional payload — specifically, perfume oil enclosed in a protective shell — which becomes embedded directly into the printed structure itself. The result is a 3D-printed material that can release fragrance or other benefit agents over time, without any post-processing coating step. Think of it as printing the scent directly into the object.
What you could build
A 3D-printed consumer or personal care product — such as a custom soap bar, skin-contact pad, or packaging insert — with long-lasting fragrance release baked in at the point of manufacture; target buyers are personal care brands and contract manufacturers seeking differentiated product formats.
Who in Virginia should care
Personal care or consumer goods manufacturers with R&D operations in Virginia, or contract additive manufacturing shops serving CPG brands in the Mid-Atlantic corridor.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Travis Kyle Hodgdon, Timothy E Long, Allison M Pekkanen, Abby Rebecca Whittington, Christopher Bryant Williams, Callie Elizabeth Zawaski, Douglas M Graham, Corey J Kenneally, Freddy Arthur Barnabas, Andre Stevenson
- Granted
- December 20, 2022
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 11529760
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.