Predicting Dynamic Processes of Bulk Powder Behaviour Based on the Changes in Particles Physical and Chemical Properties

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Aims: The project will address manufacturability problems related to bulk behaviour of industrial powders. More specifically, it will examine the impact of the materials' physical and chemical surface properties on flowability, caking and performance. The aim is to gain an understanding of how a particular material can vary in its bulk powder behaviour despite being, prima facie, the same physicochemical form of the compound. Variations in bulk powder behaviour will be quantified and related to a deep understanding of the particle properties across all relevant length scales from molecular to macroscopic. These will then be correlated with manufacture and processing conditions. Methodology Proposed for the Proposed Project (up to 200 Words) The caking behaviour of pharmaceutical powders under controlled external conditions (applied stress, humidity and temperature) will be investigated. In particular, the changes in bulk volume and internal porosity of the samples (typically reduction) under the external conditions will be measured using x-ray tomography (at Leeds and Manchester) and the results will be correlated with the bulk strength, separately measured by the ball indentation technique. The information regarding changes in the physical property will be complemented by measurements of the chemical properties, particularly surface analysis using the environmental x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Methodology:In this work, ibuprofen (crystallised with different solvents) will be initially used as a model material to establish the research methodology, as ibuprofen has been shown to cake independently of relative humidity levels as well as to form agglomerates under dynamic vibrational conditions. Other model materials will also be used at later stage of the project to verify the methodology developed. Potential Impact:The project is relevant to all industries that use powder systems as it will offer fundamental understating into the nature of bulk behaviour issues such as powder caking and poor powder flow. It will also establish novel analytical capability to predict multiscale characterisation on how macroscopically observable powder behaviour relates to molecular and mesoscopic properties. The fundamental understanding and scientific knowledge in powder behaviour, as affected by the particle properties, would be highly beneficial for academia. In addition, implementing the knowledge in practical cases could have significant economic impact on the relevant industry, for instance where the trials and errors for improving the quality of high value products could be reduced. Expected Deliverables:a) A methodology to evaluate caking behaviour of pharmaceutical powders b) In depth understanding and predictive tool for the caking and flow behaviours of active pharmaceutical powders based on particle morphology, surface chemistry and process conditions.