The compression mechanism of powders

Compaction of solid powders is an operation which is extensively carried out for the size enlargement of solid particles. Despite its crucial role in many fields, compaction is still more of an art than a science since many physical and chemical characteristics of the particles exert an influence during compression. In this study, basic characteristics of some pharmaceutical materials (microcrystalline cellulose and lactose) such as particle size and size distribution, particle shape, moisture content, surface area and apparent specific volume were measured, Their level of influence on compression and on the properties of the compact formed were assessed by measuring the strength of the compacts: A relationship was established between the apparent specific volume and compact properties. This paper discusses this relationship and applies it to ceramic powders.