Methodology to estimate the break force of pharmaceutical tablets with curved faces under diametrical compression

Abstract

This paper develops a methodology to estimate the break force of curved faced tablets under diametrical compression. Common excipients used in pharmaceutical tablet formulations, including microcrystalline cellulose, calcium phosphate and mannitol as well as their mixtures were characterised. Compacts of different densities were manufactured and their compressive and tensile strength was measured. The break force of curved face tablets having a comprehensive range of face curvatures and thickness was measured using the diametrical compression method ("hardness" test). 10 2 (2.84() − 0.126(⁄) + 3.15() + 0.01) ⁄ ⁄ −1. The proposed method has better accuracy, however, requires additional characterisation of the compressive strength of the material.

Characterization of Pharmaceutical Tablets by X-ray Tomography

“…While the type of tests varies, and other parameters such as strain-rate sensitivity, ductility or brittleness can also be measured [ 51 , 213 , 214 , 215 , 216 ]. The measurements are usually carried out using table top instruments or hand held devices [ 211 , 215 , 217 , 218 , 219 ]; and are typically destructive, therefore they are performed on few samples per batch. In certain cases a friability test is carried out i.e., to evaluate the behaviour of a tablet when subjected to collision, or pressure induced during the coating process.…”