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Particle size reduction is increasingly utilized to address a range of formulation issues facing oral solid and inhaled dosage forms. Stability, flowability, dissolution rate and bioavailability are critical performance parameters impacted by particle size distribution.  Micronization through jet milling is a core strength of Lonza with unparalleled expertise, track record and capacity in place to meet these challenges.

Micronization is an established technology and manufacturing technique for producing APIs within a 1–10 micron average particle size. We utilize proprietary jet milling technology to effectively meet specific particle size distribution targets across the full range of compound properties. Phase-appropriate jet mills are in place for non-GMP development studies and cGMP production of clinical and commercial intermediates. Specialized processing is in place for handling highly potent compounds and APIs with elastic or semi-solid properties.

Our particle size reduction services have a range of applications for oral, inhaled and transdermal drug delivery:

  • Improve API dissolution rate to provide sufficient bioavailability
  • Improve palatability properties of drug compounds
  • Generate API particles within a tight particle size distribution for proper delivery to the lungs
  • Help ensure absorption of a drug for transdermal delivery

micronization / jet milling technologies

Using high velocity compressed gas, jet milling accelerates particles to supersonic speeds to achieve sub-10 micron particle distributions. A compressed gas source is used for accelerating API particles in a tornado-like flow path within the grinding chamber of the jet mill. As particles travel in the circular path, particle-on-particle attrition is effected and particle size reduction occurs. Large particles continually migrate to the outside of the mill via centrifugal force while micronized particles migrate to the center mill outlet via drag force.

The resultant superfine particles have Gaussian distribution curves with excellent reproducibility. The process is conducted at ambient conditions due to the instantaneous pressure drop of the grinding gas within the milling chamber, cooling and colliding particles which makes jet milling an ideal technology for sensitive pharmaceutical ingredients. Pressure, feed rate and proprietary mill design attributes are utilized to influence particle size distribution.

Highly Potent Compounds – High containment capabilities support particle size reduction of high potent and cytotoxic compounds. 

Cryogenic Micronization – For APIs with elastic or semi-solid properties, we utilize this technology to meet target particle size distributions. 

Innovative Approaches to Tailoring Particle Size Distribution

View our webinar

This webcast will provide an overview of the different size-reduction techniques for tailoring a particle size distribution.

Technologies & Products


centers of excellence

Monteggio, Switzerland

Production, Research & Development, Sales & Support

Via Cantonale 4
Monteggio 6998
Switzerland

Quakertown, PA

Production

20 Pacific Dr.
Quakertown, PA 18951
United States of America

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