Compressibility characteristics of matrices prepared with ethylcellulose aqueous dispersion

Granules of acetaminophen (APAP) and Lactose Fast Flo were prepared by wet granulation method using Surelease aqueous dispersion as a granulating liquid. Acetaminophen granules containing different total solids (from Surelease) were compacted into tablets using instrumented tablet press to investigate the effect of the levels of Surelease (total solids) on the compressional properties of various formulations. Measurements were made of their compressibility, force displacement, works and forces analysis during compaction. All formulations containing Surelease utilized the compaction energy better than formulations of the same composition prepared without Surelease. As the level of total solids from Surelease was increased in the formula, the compressibility characteristic was enhanced. Granules with Surelease exhibited better deformation and densification behaviors and gave tablets of better mechanical strength compared to control tablets.