Method of controlled release and controlled release microstructures

Abstract

Tubules which contain an active agent in their lumen and compositions containing such microtubules are effective for providing a slow, controlled release of the active agent. Such microtubules are useful in the production of coating compositions for the protection of surfaces coming into contact with water, adhesive resins for the production of laminated wood products, and devices for dispensing pesticides.

What is claimed as new and desired to be secured by Letter Patent of United States is:  
     
         1 . A method for effecting the controlled release of an active agent to an environment, comprising exposing said environment to a composition comprising tubules containing said active agent in the lumen thereof.  
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said composition is a coating composition, said environment is a surface to be contacted with water, and said active agent is a biocide.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said composition is an adhesive resin used for producing laminated wood products and said active agent is a biocide.  
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said environment is the coat of an animal and said active agent is an insecticide.  
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said tubule is a metallized tubule.  
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said active agent is one or members selected from the group consisting of fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pheromones, hormones, antibiotics, antihelmetics, and antifouling agents.  
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said active agent is present in said lumen in the form of a blend, solution, or dispersion in a carrier.  
     
     
         8 . A composition for effecting the controlled release of an active agent to an environment, comprising a tubule containing a solution, dispersion, or blend of an active agent in a carrier in the lumen thereof.  
     
     
         9 . The composition of  claim 8 , wherein said tubule is metallized.  
     
     
         10 . The composition of  claim 9 , wherein said carrier is a polymer.  
     
     
         11 . The composition of  claim 8 , wherein said active agent is one or more members selected from the group consisting of fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pheromones, hormones, antibiotics, antihelmetics, and antifouling agents.  
     
     
         12 . The composition of  claim 8 , wherein said tubule further comprises an additional amount of said active agent within the wall of the tubule or on the outside surface of the wall of the tubule.