EFFECT OF BINDER ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BULK-DENSITY AND COMPACTIBILITY OF LACTOSE GRANULATIONS

The effect of a binder on the relationship between the bulk density and compactibility of lactose granulations was studied by comparing binderless granules with granules containing hydroxypropylcellulose. Granulations were prepared from different grades of alpha-lactose monohydrate and anhydrous beta-lactose, respectively, using two different wet granulation techniques. The results show that the effect of the binder on tablet strength is independent of the type of lactose used, but is significantly influenced by the consolidation and compaction behaviour of the lactose particles. The effectivity of the binder increases with a decrease of the bulk density of the granule powder bed. Tablets with a high crushing strength can be prepared from porous granules, containing a binder.