Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 23, 2026

Three-Dimensional Particle Shape Analysis Using X-ray Computed Tomography: Experimental Procedure and Analysis Algorithms for Metal Powders
Published on: December 4, 2020
Estimation of Drug Particle Size in Intact Tablets by 2-Dimensional X-Ray Diffractometry
Seema Thakral1, Naveen K Thakral2, Raj Suryanarayanan2
1Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455; Characterization Facility, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455.
This study validates using 2D X-ray diffraction to measure grain size in organic powders and intact tablets. The method accurately determined acetaminophen grain size in marketed formulations, showing its pharmaceutical utility.
Area of Science:
- Crystallography
- Materials Science
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
Background:
- Grain size is a critical material property influencing performance.
- 2D X-ray diffraction (XRD) offers a potential method for grain size determination.
- Validating this technique for pharmaceutical applications is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the 2D XRD γ-profile method for organic powders.
- To determine grain size in intact pharmaceutical tablets.
- To assess the pharmaceutical relevance by analyzing marketed formulations.
Main Methods:
- Preparation and characterization of sucrose sieve fractions.
- Determination of average grain size using 2D XRD γ-profile analysis.
- Analysis of acetaminophen grain size in commercial tablet formulations.
Main Results:
- Good agreement between 2D XRD and laser diffraction for particles <90 μm.
- No significant change in sucrose grain size upon compression for smaller particles.
- Compression of larger sucrose particles (>250 μm) resulted in grain fragmentation.
- Acetaminophen grain size in marketed tablets was found to be approximately 35 μm or 80 μm.
Conclusions:
- The 2D XRD γ-profile method is validated for organic powders and intact tablets.
- The technique is non-destructive and suitable for analyzing crystalline components in formulations.
- This method can be valuable for quality control and understanding drug product performance.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
X-ray Diffraction of Biological Samples
According to Bragg's law, when X-rays strike the sample positioned on a stage, the rays are scattered by the electron clouds around the sample atoms. The X-ray diffraction or scattering is caused by constructive interference of the X-ray waves that reflect off the internal...
Factors Affecting Dissolution: Particle Size and Effective Surface Area
Pharmaceutical Alternatives: Polymorphic Form-Related and Particle Size-Related Therapeutic Nonequivalence
Drug Dissolution: Requirements and Profile Comparison
Factors Influencing Drug Absorption: Pharmaceutical Parameters
Formulation and Manufacturing Process: Physical Attributes of Generic Tablets and Capsules

