The course aims to provide students with in-depth knowledge of the physicochemical and functional properties of micro- and nanoparticulate systems, with a focus on their design, characterization, and potential applications in the pharmaceutical field.
Course Prerequisites
The course requires basic knowledge in mathematics, physics, and pharmaceutical technology.
Teaching Methods
Theoretical lessons. No practical exercises are planned. For students with specific needs, who cannot attend in person the teaching activities and who have applied for Inclusive Teaching Methods, the professor will provide teaching material suitable for independent study. If requested, self-learning can be supported by supplementary teaching activities and dedicated meetings, also online, with flexible hours depending on the needs.
Assessment Methods
Final oral examination focused on the program of the whole course. The level of learning achieved by the student on the contents of the lectures, the reference text and the proposed literature will be evaluated. The results of the tests will be made known through esse3. Appropriate exam modalities are provided for students falling within the categories of Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) and Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Texts
A. Martin "Physical Pharmacy" 4th Ed, Lea & Febiger, 2004 J.T Carstensen ”Advanced pharmaceutical solids”, Marcel Dekker”, 2001 M.E. Aulton, K. Taylor “Aulton's Pharmaceutics: the design and manufacturing of medicines” 5th Edition, Elsevier, 2018
Contents
1. Fundamental properties of powders (micro- and nanoparticulate systems): i) particle size and size distribution (measurement methods, data representation, calculation of statistical mean diameters); ii) particle shape (definitions and characterization techniques); iii) specific surface area (theoretical background and measurement methods – permeability, gas adsorption). 2. Derived properties of powders (micro- and nanoparticulate systems): i) packing properties (bulk and tapped density measurement according to Pharmacopeia; calculation of Carr and Hausner indices); ii) flow properties (measurement of static and dynamic angle of repose; evaluation of tensile strength in cohesive powders – inclined plane, Jenike cell). 3. Mechanical properties of powders (micro- and nanoparticulate systems): i) hardness and deformation resistance; ii) Young’s modulus. 4. Surface properties of powders (micro- and nanoparticulate systems): surface charge, surface functionalization. 5. Powder stability (micro- and nanoparticulate systems): i) factors affecting chemical and physical stability; ii) instability phenomena (agglomeration, crystallization, chemical degradation); iii) formulation strategies to enhance long-term stability. 6. Application of powders (micro- and nanoparticulate systems) as Drug Delivery Systems.
Course Language
Italian
More information
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