Improving precision in nanoparticulate formulation dispensing

Biotech Fluidics has successfully developed and implemented an innovative combined micro flowmeter and degasser system to improve the dispensing of a nanoparticulate formulation for a leading medical technology company.

To ensure precise spray coating of the pharmaceutical formulation onto a medical device, the contract manufacturing organisation (CMO) enlisted Biotech Fluidics for their expertise in turnkey fluidics systems and degassing solutions.

Biotech Fluidics' Micro Flow Meter, optimised for flow rates ranging from 100 nl to 80 µL/min with a high resolution of 1 nl/min, proved to be the ideal tool for monitoring the accuracy and consistency of low-volume liquid dispensing.

Robin Oz, Project Manager at Biotech Fluidics, explained: “While flowmeters are available for lab-scale processes, they often fall short in monitoring micro and nanoscale liquid volumes. Our Micro Flow Meter, a non-invasive device offering real-time flow data, was perfect for ensuring the precision of the pharmaceutical spray coating. Although our flowmeter is calibrated for aqueous solutions, we collaborated with our customer to develop a robust calibration for acetone, the solvent used in the manufacturing process.”

Dr Oz added: “Microbubble formation, which compromised dosing precision, was a challenge we addressed by integrating a high-performance degasser into the process line. Our DEGASi® Plus Nano inline degasser, with an internal volume of just 25 µl and optimised for fluid flows up to 100 µL/min, effectively resolved this issue.”

He concluded: “After demonstrating the reliable operation and monitoring accuracy of the micro flowmeter and degasser setup, our client has placed an order for 32 systems.”

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