Laser Diffraction Measurements using the Malvern Spraytec
Laser Light Diffraction Measurements using the Malvern Spraytec
The instrument (Malvern Spraytec) is equipped with an inhalation cell which enables withdrawal of aerosol particles/droplets into the measurement zone using a standard flow control unit or by using a lung simulator (patient realistic inhalation profiles).
Measurement without the inhalation cell, i.e. in open air, can also be provided, for example on nasal products using a fire station.
All types of devices can be assessed with this technique. In addition to the standard output parameters, Dv10, Dv50, and Dv90, it is possible to evaluate the aerosol emptying time and volume from the device. Anatomical throat models can also be used in the set up so that the measurement is performed on the “lung dose”.
By utilizing an in-house developed test chamber (modified inhalation cell) and sophisticated data processing we also offer measurement of simultaneously and time synchronized overlay of both the laser diffraction data (optional) and air flow data. Both parameters are measured at the inhaler mouthpiece exit. See example below. The advantage of this type of investigation is that the effect from different inhalation flows/profiles on the emptying process for a DPI capsule can be assessed with high resolution.
The Malvern Spraytec Laser diffraction system offers testing flexibility, here illustrated with an anatomical throat as inlet before the measurement zone.
The result output from a laser diffraction measurement is very comprehensive, giving detailed information of the aerosol.
An illustration of the time synced measurement of airflow and laser diffraction output measured simultaneously at the device outlet.
