Abstract
Tympanotonus fus cata var radula (L) or periwinkle is a mollusc and abounds in the Niger Delta , Nigeria . It is highly consumed as source of protein . The empty shells , hither to poorly utilize d add to environmental menace. T his pilot study seeks a n industrially based econom ic value for the shell . The physico - technical properties of t he powder processed from it was evaluated as excipient for the pharmaceutical sector . A 10 % w/v aqueous dispersion of t he biomaterial has pH of 11.20. It was insoluble in water and several organ ic solvents , effervesces in dilu te or concentrated mineral acid . High level of calcium and other trace elements below the recommended pharmacopeia limits were analysed . Since its LD 50 > 15,000 mg/ kg body weight in albino mice, it i s considered non - toxic an d may serve as pharmaceutical aid in formulating orally administered medicines . Its low moisture content and mois ture absorption capacity below 3 % in 96, 84, 75 and 52 % (30 o C) relative humidity shows that it may offer a stable formulation with hydro - degr adable drugs. The compacted pellets showed high friability, though powder demonstrated poor flowabilty , implying that it may serve as tablet di luent in wet granulation technique and not as directly compressible filler . I ts trace metal and high calcium cont ent indicates that it could be processed commercially as calcium supplement for livestock. These findings if harnessed will cause a shift of economic responsiveness to periwinkle shell , protect our environment , extend agricultural activities , offer job pro spects and generate raw - material for the indige nous drug and food industries.
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