Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
4452716 Journal of Aerosol Science 2011 10 Pages PDF
Abstract

This study aims to investigate quantitatively the direct correlation between the mechanical strength of powder agglomerates and their dispersion into aerosols by a dry powder inhaler. Agglomerates of mannitol as a model drug-only formulation were prepared by a rolling method followed by exposure to various relative humidity (RH: 55%, 82%, 86% and 90%). The agglomerate strength was obtained from the compression of single agglomerates at a selected speed rate using an Instron testing machine. The dispersion performance (FPFLoaded) was determined at flow rates of 60 and 100 l min−1 using an Aeroliser® coupled to a multistage liquid impinger. Results showed an inverse linear relationship between the agglomerate strength and the dispersion performance. An increase in strength from 3 to 183 kPa resulted in a significant drop (P<0.05) of 18% in the FPFLoaded. Agglomerates containing ‘solid bridges’ exhibited higher strength (three to eight times) and lower FPF (5–15%, corresponding to 86% and 90% RH) compared to those containing ‘liquid bridges’. These results have provided direct information on the agglomerate strength and its quantitative relationship with powder aerosol performance.

Research highlights► Novel method to quantify the mechanical strength of pharmaceutical agglomerates. ► Direct correlation on the agglomerate strength and aerosol performance. ► Effect of solid and liquid bridges formation on agglomerate strength and dispersion.

Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Earth and Planetary Sciences Atmospheric Science
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