Principal investigator: Antonios Zavaliangos
University: Drexel University
Industry partners: GSK Pharmaceuticals
The accumulation of powder on punches pharmaceutical tablet manufacturing is a persistent problem beginning with degraded tablet quality but escalating to unacceptable weight variability. Sticking often escapes early R&D and when it occurs in manufacturing it is very costly. Therefore, early formulation R&D and manufacturing require tools that detect, quantify and diagnose sticking early. Building on an previous in-line laser reflectance sensor developed at Drexel University and GSK, this project will advance the platform from “coverage-equivalent” detection to a deployable system that provides rich information on sticking evolution. Enhancements include: (a) dual-angle detection to understand deposit morphology; (b) two-wavelength reflectance as proxies of surface-state; and (c) scan-based mapping to quantify spatial heterogeneity. Outputs will be validated using surface topography and XPS. Three materials with known sticking tendencies will be characterized. The results will support mechanistic insight, faster troubleshooting, low costs and faster times to market. A graduate student will gain valuable experience by training through intense industry collaboration.