Fernando Muzzio, PhD

Prior to use in a continuous manufacturing system for oral solid dosage forms, loss-in-weight feeders need to be tested and validated to understand the performance capabilities of a given material–feeder combination. In this article, the proper strategy for set-up and optimization of a loss-in-weight feeder is demonstrated for a range of materials. The optimized set-up of the feeders was demonstrated to provide suitable performance for even the most challenging, poorly flowing materials.

Shear-sensitive ingredients in a tableting formulation experience different conditions in a batch tumble blender than they would in a continuous paddle blender.

In-silico design facilitates process optimization and evaluation of process control strategies.

Applying model-predictive methods and a continuous process-control framework to a continuous tablet-manufacturing process.

The authors propose a plan to keep the US pharma industry afloat and in the lead.

Almost all pharmaceutical manufacturing processes require handling and processing cohesive powders. The application of sufficient shear (i.e., the total deformation that the bulk of granular material undergoes under applied shear stress) is an essential factor in such processes. Sufficient shear is required to mill and de-lump materials, achieve sufficient flow, and homogenize cohesive ingredients. Shear mixing plays a critical role in the blending of dry powders, particularly for those that contain a minor cohesive component such as a solid lubricant or a drug. This mechanism is necessary to achieve a satisfactory homogeneity and disintegrate possible agglomerates. Excessive shear can be disadvantageous, however, and can lead to electrostatic buildup, attrition, and overlubrication.

In this final part of a series of three articles, the results from experiments involving cohesive materials are discussed in terms of mixing performance, agglomerate comminution, and lubrication of powder mixtures.

In part two of a series of three articles, mixing rates and mechanisms are examined using rectangular bin blenders and two free-flowing mixtures.

Bin blender performance is comprehensively reviewed using both free-flowing and cohesive mixtures.

Flow problems, such as process performance and reliability, can be improved using a combination of experimental and computational methods.

Flow problems, such as process performance and reliability, can be improved using a combination of experimental and computational methods.

Flow problems must be addressed using the combined approach of experimental and computational methods.

A training program at Rutgers University combines the disciplines of engineering and pharmaceutics to provide a thorough educational experience in drug manufacturing.