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Updated: Feb 22, 2026

Predicting Catalyst Extrudate Breakage Based on the Modulus of Rupture
Published on: May 13, 2018
Mechanics of Pharmaceutical Pellets-Constitutive Properties, Deformation, and Breakage Behavior
Alexander Russell1, Rok Šibanc2, Rok Dreu2
1Mechanical Process Engineering, Otto von Guericke University of Magdeburg, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany.
Abstract:
To ensure robust manufacturing of unit-based oral solid dosage forms with minimal structural imperfections and high mechanical reliability across subsequent processing unit operations (e.g., withstanding mechanical stresses during coating, optional axial compression, handling, packaging, storage, and transport conditions), process design should include consideration of precise limits of accurate micro, macro, and bulk properties of the constituent pellets. This communication presents a comprehensive intricate database of micromechanical properties' and breakage probability distribution functions of pellets, illustrating the stiffening and strengthening effects of coatings and the softening and weakening effects of structural moisture. Further insights such as the (contact) history-dependent softening during decompression, strain hardening on repeated stressing, strength recovery by drying, and the fragmentation pattern by cracking are also presented. The contents herein are based on conveniently performable lab-scale diametrical compression measurements on model microcrystalline cellulose pellets-demonstrating feasibility of the approach and validity of the contribution.
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