Combining a gas pycnometer and envelope density analyzer to measure critical parameters for solid dosage forms
Micromeritics Instrument Corp., a global leader in material characterization technology, is shining the spotlight on the value of its Micromeritics AccuPyc II pycnometer and Micromeritics GeoPyc envelope density analyzer bundle, an efficient, comprehensive solution for density measurement for the pharmaceutical industry. The AccuPyc II and GeoPyc both measure volume by pycnometry, a displacement technique, but using different media. Together they determine a range of density parameters for pharmaceutical powders, granules, compacted ribbons and tablets (coated or uncoated). These parameters characterize the performance of key processes such as tableting and roller compaction, and influence critical quality attributes such as hardness, disintegration and dissolution profile. Fast, automated and efficient the latest AccuPyc II model 1345 and GeoPyc 1365 can be used to measure solid dosage forms from R&D, through manufacturing, and into product quality control.
When it comes to determining density sample mass is a unique, easily determined value but volume can be measured in a range of ways. With the AccuPyc, volume is determined by gas displacement, typically helium or nitrogen. Gas penetrates a tablet, into the spaces between particles in a powder sample, and potentially into individual particles. The density parameters generated by gas pycnometry therefore provide insight into the internal structure of pharmaceutical powders and products. In contrast, the quasi-fluid used with the GeoPyc is unable to penetrate the structure of a sample and the displaced volume is therefore defined by an ‘envelope’ around it. These data quantify an averaged density for finished products, a complementary metric to those determined by gas pycnometry.
For the pharmaceutical industry the density parameters generated by the AccuPyc and GeoPyc are valuable and relevant because:
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True, absolute, or skeletal density (AccuPyc II) influences the flow, segregation and compressibility behavior of powders and granules, parameters that define manufacturing efficiency and influence product quality. Measurement can directly quantify coating integrity.
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Bulk density (GeoPyc) is an essential measurement for uniform die-filling and dosing and provides insight into flowability.
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Envelope density (GeoPyc) can be used to monitor the consistency of compression processes. When combined with true density it quantifies average porosity, which influences mechanical integrity and dissolution performance.
The AccuPyc II and GeoPyc are both highly automated and both offer simple rapid, precision measurement. Both use Micromeritics’ confirm software, which is specifically designed for 21 CFR Part11 compliance.