Malvern^® Instruments, Copley Scientific and Melbourn Scientific join forces to deliver unique spray analysis seminar

An innovative one-day seminar, run jointly by Malvern^® Instruments, Copley Scientific and Melbourn Scientific, and held at Malvern’s UK headquarters on 18 October 2007, presented delegates with a unique opportunity to learn about different techniques for pharmaceutical spray analysis.

Combining their expertise in laser diffraction, cascade impaction and the practicalities of pharmaceutical analysis, the three companies were able to deliver an extremely useful seminar, successfully complementing theory with practical demonstrations. Spray analysis is critical for the development and QC of inhalation devices, including nasal sprays, nebulisers, and metered dose and dry powder inhalers.

Reviewing the day, Paul Kippax, Product Manager Diffraction Products for Malvern Instruments, said, “We see laser diffraction and cascade impaction as complementary techniques for the sector, a view highlighted by our decision to host this event. Malvern, Copley and Melbourn all have different experiences to contribute and this gave the event broad appeal. Feedback has been extremely positive and we plan to develop and repeat the seminar next year.”

The seminar began with a presentation from each of the companies. These covered the topics of regulatory requirements for product testing, the application of laser diffraction in product development, and the practice and pitfalls of regulatory product testing. Later sessions demonstrating the use of laser diffraction for nebuliser and nasal spray characterization, and the set up and use of the Next Generation Impactor (NGI), furnished participants with practical tips for effective and efficient analysis.

Laser diffraction provides real-time particle size measurement during a spray event giving insight into the dynamics of spray formation. Cascade impaction on the other hand uniquely allows determination of the aerodynamic particle size distribution of the active ingredient within a formulation. Both techniques are valuable to the pharmaceutical industry, which has significant interest in the development of inhalation products.