Plume Geometry, Spray Pattern & Plume Front Velocity Testing
The physical dynamics of an aerosol or nasal spray plume – how it expands, its cross-sectional symmetry, and the speed at which it travels – directly dictate regional deposition, dose efficiency, and patient comfort. For generic drug approvals (ANDAs) and novel device development, global regulatory authorities require rigorous, non-destructive optical characterization of spray patterns and plume geometry.
At Emmace, we utilize state-of-the-art high-speed digital imaging and laser sheet visualization setups to capture real-time plume dynamics. We deliver fast, reliable optical testing tailored to meet FDA Product-Specific Guidances (PSGs) and accelerate your product development.
Complete Spray Dynamics & Optical Testing Capabilities
We adapt our high-speed imaging setups to evaluate a wide range of oral inhalation and nasal drug products (OINDPs):
- Spray Pattern Analysis: Non-destructive laser sheet cross-sectional imaging to determine spray area, major/minor diameters, and ovality ratio at defined distances from the actuator orifice.
- Plume Geometry Measurement: High-speed side-view visualization to quantify plume angle and plume width throughout the different phases of actuation.
- Plume Front Velocity: Time-resolved high-speed digital videography to measure the velocity profile of the advancing spray front, crucial for evaluating equivalence between soft mist inhalers.
- Automated Robotic Actuation: Integrated mechanical actuation benches that control stroke force, velocity, and acceleration to eliminate analyst-induced variability during optical measurements.
Supporting In Vitro Bioequivalence (BE) & Device Optimization
Characterizing spray dynamics requires precise timing and environmental control. Subtle shifts in formulation surface tension, propellant pressure, or actuator geometry can significantly alter the resulting plume.
Emmace provides tailored optical testing strategies supporting:
- FDA Bioequivalence (BE) Submissions: Fully compliant comparative Spray Pattern and Plume Geometry studies designed to fulfill FDA PSG requirements for generic nasal sprays and pMDIs.
- Prototype & Actuator Screening: Rapid optical evaluations to compare candidate pump mechanisms, nozzle orifices, and formulation compositions during early-stage R&D.
- Transition to Low-GWP Propellants: Evaluating the impact of next-generation green propellants (HFA-152a, HFO-1234ze) on pMDI plume velocity and spray symmetry.
Ready to Characterize Your Spray Dynamics?
Connect directly with our experts to discuss your project requirements, request a custom proposal, or schedule a meeting.
These pictures show the spray plumes from three different hair spray brands, including the calculated plume angle.