Evaluation of a High-Efficiency Solids–Solids Blender

Abstract

Solids–solids blending of pharmaceuticals is a time-consuming batch operation. Modern techniques using high-efficiency mixing devices as a method of process time-saving and cost reduction are becoming of prime concern. The Littleford-Lodige mixer was evaluated as a method of achieving rapid high-efficiency solids-solids blending; its application as a wet granulation device was also briefly investigated. The data obtained using the Littleford-Lodige mixer as a solids-solids blender is presented. Evaluation of the data indicate complete mixing is obtained in approximately 30 sec. Preliminary evaluation of this equipment as a method of wet granulation indicates granulation times in the order of 5 to 10 min. or less, depending on mixing characteristics and ingredients. Based on the results of this work, the Littleford-Lodige mixer appears to be a promising method of achieving rapid dry blending and wet granulation in one piece of equipment. Its use in the field of blending and wet granulation is worthy of further investigation. Solids–solids blending of pharmaceuticals is a time-consuming batch operation. Modern techniques using high-efficiency mixing devices as a method of process time-saving and cost reduction are becoming of prime concern. The Littleford-Lodige mixer was evaluated as a method of achieving rapid high-efficiency solids-solids blending; its application as a wet granulation device was also briefly investigated. The data obtained using the Littleford-Lodige mixer as a solids-solids blender is presented. Evaluation of the data indicate complete mixing is obtained in approximately 30 sec. Preliminary evaluation of this equipment as a method of wet granulation indicates granulation times in the order of 5 to 10 min. or less, depending on mixing characteristics and ingredients. Based on the results of this work, the Littleford-Lodige mixer appears to be a promising method of achieving rapid dry blending and wet granulation in one piece of equipment. Its use in the field of blending and wet granulation is worthy of further investigation.