Process Development and Control with Recent New FBRM, PVM, and IR

Process analytical technologies (PATs) have played an important role in process development and optimization throughout the pharmaceutical industry. Recent new PATs, including in-process video microscopy (PVM), a new generation of focused-beam reflectance measurement (FBRM), miniature process IR spectroscopy, and a flow IR sensor, have been evaluated, demonstrated, and utilized in the process development of many drug substances. First, PVM has filled a technical gap by providing the capability to study morphology for particle engineering by visualizing particles in real time without compromising the integrity of sample. Second, the new FBRM G series has closed gaps associated with the old S series with respect to probe fouling, bearing reliability, data analysis, and software integration. Third, a miniaturized process IR analyzer has brought forth the benefits of increased robustness, enhanced performance, improved usability, and ease of use, especially at scale-up. Finally, a miniaturized flow IR sensor has provided process flow chemistry development with a smaller, faster-performing, less expensive analytical tool.