November 2012 Editor's Picks: Products from Malvern Instruments and GEA Pharma Systems

Malvern Instruments
Dynamic light scattering system measures microrheology and protein structure

The Zetasizer Nano ZSP is an addition to the Malvern Instruments’ range of dynamic light scattering (DLS) systems. The Nano ZSP measures both size and zeta potential (i.e., electrophoretic mobility) of proteins. A new protein mobility measurement type in the software that controls data acquisition guides the user through the measurement and assesses and reports on data quality. The Nano ZSP uses a new version of Zetasizer software that enables microrheology measurements for the first time on Zetasizer instruments. This DLS-based optical technique allows rheological characterization of weakly-structured and highly strain-sensitive materials using only microliter sample volumes. Applications include measuring the viscosity of polymer and protein solutions and determining the onset of protein aggregation.

GEA Pharma Systems
Continuous high-shear granulation and drying system improves efficiency

The ConsiGma continuous high-shear granulation and drying system from GEA Pharma Systems uses continuous production technology instead of traditional batch technology to produce granules. The system is about one-fourth the size of a traditional granulation line and can run from 500 g for research and development up through production-size batches. Because it is a continuous process, larger amounts do not require a larger machine, but only a longer time. Eliminating scale-up helps reduce development time and cost. ConsiGma has been shown to improve intra-granular porosity and compressibility characteristics.