Related Experiment Videos
Non-aqueous emulsions: hydrocarbon-formamide systems.
T Sakthivel1, V Jaitely, N V Patel
1Centre for Drug Delivery Research, The School of Pharmacy, University of London, 29/39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK.
International Journal of Pharmaceutics
|April 3, 2001
Summary
This study explores non-aqueous emulsions using formamide as a water substitute. Researchers found optimal globule size with C10-C12 alkanes and investigated surfactant properties for stable formulations.
Area of Science:
- Colloid and Surface Science
- Formulation Science
- Emulsion Technology
Background:
- Limited research exists on non-aqueous emulsion formulation.
- Formamide offers potential as a water replacement in emulsification processes.
- Non-ionic surfactants are key stabilizers in these systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate design criteria for non-aqueous emulsions.
- To investigate the influence of alkane chain length on globule size.
- To determine surfactant behavior in formamide.
Main Methods:
- Formulation of linear alkanes (C6-C16) in formamide using polysorbate 20.
- Measurement of mean globule size via gentle emulsification and sonication.
- Determination of surface activity and critical micellar concentrations of various polysorbates in formamide.
Main Results:
- Mean globule size showed a non-linear relationship with alkane chain length, with a minimum between C10 and C12.
- Sonication reduced globule size variations.
- Critical micellar concentrations in formamide were significantly higher than in water, with larger molecular areas.
- Water addition did not destabilize dodecane-formamide emulsions.
- Drug release rate from emulsions depended on the dodecane volume fraction.
Conclusions:
- Formamide is a viable continuous phase for non-aqueous emulsions.
- Surfactant properties in formamide differ significantly from those in water.
- Non-aqueous emulsions can be designed for controlled drug release applications.