High Resolution X-Ray Micro Computerized Tomography (CT): A Powerful Non-Destructive Tool For Tablet Characterization

By Rahul V. Haware, Robert Sedlock, Grant Sedlock, Ming Ji, Nitinkumar Swarnkar, Sandip Tiwari, and Angela Criswell

Tablets are the most popular drug vehicle due to their predictable release, targeted action, and cost-effective, high-volume production. Their performance is dictated by the internal three-dimensional (3D) skeleton formed by the active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and excipients during compression. While traditional testing ensures quality, it doesn't offer the detailed insights into the internal structure needed to decode performance failures or guarantee consistency.

Advanced spectral techniques can profile a tablet's chemistry, but they fall short on providing the critical 3D physical structure information. This is where high-resolution X-ray computerized tomography (X-ray CT) excels. It offers a non-destructive, detailed analysis of density gradients, internal defects (like cracks and voids), and the 3D internal physical structure.

This vital technique helps researchers correlate a tablet's structure with its dissolution performance. For instance, X-ray micro-CT can differentiate between cracking in physically blended excipients versus the uniform, crack-free structure of co-processed excipients, directly explaining differences in drug release variability. The technology can also quickly identify foreign particles and help perform root cause analysis for tableting defects such as capping and lamination. Discover how X-ray micro-CT can revolutionize your solid dosage form characterization and quality control efforts.