Thin-coating as an alternative approach to improve flow properties of ibuprofen powder

In the present study, thin-coating as a potential method for improving flow properties of cohesive ibuprofen powder was introduced. Briefly, the technique was based on the successive deposition of ultrasound-assisted fine polymer mist onto the surface of the powdered active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), producing individual particles with a hydrophilic thin-coat. A 0.15% m/V aqueous solution of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) was used. Particle size and surface analysis revealed a decrease in the cohesiveness of ibuprofen powder and an increase in the homogeneity of particle surfaces as a result of polymer treatment. Superficial changes caused a substantial improvement on the flowing characteristics of coated substance over uncoated. The enhancement in flow rate proceeded as the uniformity of the HPMC layer increased. In conclusion, the proposed technique is a simple and effective method that can be used as a continuous process to modify API particle surface properties, which in turn improve the handling of poorly flowable powder.