Abstract
This study explores the influence of different synthesis methods and drying conditions in the preparation of sodium alginate-derivate xerogels presenting interesting disintegrant functionalities. Xerogels containing alginic acid (AA) or calcium alginate (CaA) and a mixture of both, AA/CaA, were isolated using two different drying methods oven and rotary evaporation. AA showed the best wettability behavior, in contrast to the rigid crosslinked CaA structure which showed a limited rate of water penetration. Interestingly, xerogel containing AA dried in the oven showed an enhanced maximum water uptake. Oven drying seems to favor the isolation of materials presenting good tabletability. Compression parameters of the formulations (tensile strength, elastic energy and porosity) were not affected by their presence (5%) in the design of OroDispersible Mini Tablets. In vitro disintegration results highlighted the water wicking as the key factor leading the disintegration mechanism of these materials. These results show promise of potential properties for the development of super disintegrant excipients.