A novel micro-fabricated thruster for drug release in remote controlled capsule

A novel solid propellant microthruster has been developed and used as the actuation assembly of a patented remote controlled capsule (RCC). It produces sufficient gas pressure to empty the drug reservoir within the RCC. A MEMS-based microigniter works as the critical component of the miniaturized thruster that houses the detonating agent – diazodintrophenol (DDNP) and the propellant – black powder. Ignition and combustion tests were performed to justify its feasibility and reliability. Results demonstrated that 166 mW power consumption led to one successful combustion and that complete and rapid drug release was achieved when the propellant ranged from 16 mg to 20 mg. The RCC integrated with the microthruster could provide a promising alternative for site-specific drug delivery in human GI tract.