The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 11, 2006
Filed:
Mar. 11, 2005
Boris Y. Shekunov, Aurora, OH (US);
Pratibhash Chattopadhyay, North Royalton, OH (US);
Jeffrey S. Seitzinger, Broadview Heights, OH (US);
Boris Y. Shekunov, Aurora, OH (US);
Pratibhash Chattopadhyay, North Royalton, OH (US);
Jeffrey S. Seitzinger, Broadview Heights, OH (US);
Ferro Pfanstiehl Laboratories, Inc., Waukegan, IL (US);
Abstract
A method and apparatus for producing particles, the apparatus includes a solution source that supplies a solution, and a fluid source that supplies a fluid. The solution includes a solvent and a solute. A mixer receives the solution and the fluid from the sources, and mixes the solution and the fluid together to form a mixture. The mixture is supplied from the mixer to an expansion assembly at first pressure. The expansion assembly sprays and expands the mixture substantially simultaneously to form frozen droplets, and preferably to form a low-density powder of frozen droplets. A freeze-dry apparatus sublimes the solvent from the particles. A high mass-transfer rate and a uniform open-structure of the powder bed enhances the freeze-drying process. Solid particles having a controlled size distribution are obtained. The particles preferably have a hollow or porous morphology suitable for differing drug delivery applications to include aerosol formulations.