The effect of some binding agents on the mechanical properties of granules and their compression characteristics

Abstract

Abstract The modulus of elasticity and the crushing strength of cylindrical granules prepared by a template method, and the friability of conventional granules were measured and the effect of the binding agents, PVP, methyl cellulose and maize starch examined. These properties were related to the compression characteristics of the granules and to the crushing force of the subsequent tablets. According to the base material two cases were observed. With dicalcium phosphate little plastic flow was evident and low radial stress transmission was noticed, the softest granules led to the weakest compacts. With paracetamol more plastic flow occurred giving a greater axial to radial conversion of force and the softest granules produced the strongest tablets. The extent of further generated contact area played the major role. Generally, due to the better bonding capacity, dicalcium phosphate gave stronger compacts than paracetamol, although lower radial transmission ratios were recorded. A good conversion of axial to radial force was thus proved not to be the main factor in obtaining good tablets, as was also confirmed by the paracetamol powder alone. With paracetamol the residual pressure on the die wall was greater with the formulations producing satisfactory tablets than with paracetamol alone which gave rise to capping.