Work

Exploring disintegration and swelling dynamics in Kappa-Carrageenan-based seaweed capsule shells

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: • Disintegration Dynamics: The study investigates the disintegration dynamics of carrageenan-based seaweed capsules, emphasizing the swelling mechanism and the role of various disintegrants. • Disintegrants Analyzed: Polyvinylpyrrolidone, Primogel, Croscarmellose sodium, and Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose were evaluated for their effects on capsule disintegration and swelling. • Primogel's Impact: Primogel demonstrated the lowest swelling value (949.94 %) and the fastest disintegration time (36 min and 21 s), indicating its effectiveness in promoting wicking and enhancing capsule performance. • Pharmaceutical Implications: The findings suggest that optimizing the choice of disintegrants can significantly improve the formulation and effectiveness of carrageenan-based capsule shells for pharmaceutical applications. • Vegetarian Capsule Formulations: The study provides valuable insights for developing vegetarian capsule formulations, catering to consumer preferences for plant-based alternatives. Kappa-Carrageenan or κ-Carrageenan-based seaweed capsule shells offer an appealing option for pharmaceutical formulations, particularly for vegetarian preferences. However, their disintegration kinetics present challenges for efficient medication release. This study investigates the disintegration dynamics of seaweed capsules, focusing on the swelling mechanism and the influence of various disintegrants. κ-Carrageenan-based capsule shells incorporating Polyvinylpyrrolidone, Primogel, Croscarmellose sodium, and Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose were examined for swelling behavior and disintegration time. Results reveal deviations in swelling behavior, with added disintegrants altering the disintegration mechanism towards wicking. Notably, Primogel demonstrates a significant wicking mechanism effect, evidenced by its markedly lower swelling value compared to other disintegrants (949.944 %). Analysis of swelling kinetic parameters further elucidates distinct trends in the swelling behavior of capsules containing different disintegrants, suggesting that Primogel promotes a gradual water uptake, facilitating wicking within the capsule matrix. Furthermore, capsules with Primogel exhibit the lowest disintegration time among tested disintegrants, achieving 36 min and 21 s. The study also explores the impact of disintegrants on capsule shell coloration and surface morphology, crucial factors influencing consumer acceptance. In conclusion, the study underscores the relationship between swelling propensity and disintegration time, providing valuable insights for optimizing capsule formulations in pharmaceutical applications.

Source: South African Journal of Chemical Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.sajce.2025.04.015