(93ap) Use of near Infrared Spectroscopy to Characterize Powder Flow Behavior in a Fluid Bed Dryer

In pharmaceutical applications, fluid bed dryers are used to dry powders by forcing air through the bed of powders. Its objective is to fluidize the particles to increase the mass and energy transfer area and obtain a more efficient drying. This research is focused on understanding the fluidization dynamics of a fluid bed dryer using Near Infrared Spectroscopy and monohydrate lactose as the powder material. Near Infrared Spectroscopy was selected because its spectra can reflect different patterns of O-H groups contained in the powder. It has also been used to monitor residual moisture in pharmaceutical formulations and other multiple applications besides pharmaceutical. In this research the spectra behavior will be related to the movement of the particles in different points of the fluid bed dryer. The NIR spectra will be taken at different diameter and axial position, at different air velocity entering the bed and at two different temperatures. The results of the Near Infrared Spectroscopy can be used to compare and analyze differences in patterns to know how these variables can affect the drying of the material.