Effects of binder rheology on melt agglomeration in a high shear mixer

Abstract Lactose monohydrate was melt agglomerated in an 8-l high shear mixer using Gelucire 50/13, Stearate 6000 WL 1644, or polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3000 as meltable binder. The impeller speed was varied at two levels, and massing time was varied at six levels. In order to obtain a similar agglomerate growth, a larger binder volume had to be used with Gelucire 50/13 than with Stearate 6000 WL 1644 and PEG 3000. The lower viscosity of Gelucire 50/13 gave rise to agglomerates of a wider size distribution and a higher porosity as well as more adhesion of mass to the bowl. A lower binder viscosity resulted in more spherical agglomerates at the low impeller speed.

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