Work

Surface Mediated Structures: Stabilization of Metastable Polymorphs on the Example of Paracetamol

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: The preparation of typically thermodynamically unstable polymorphic structures is a challenge. However, solid surfaces are well established aids for the formation and stabilization of polymorphic structures within, for instance, organic electronics. In this study, we report the stabilization of a pharmaceutically relevant substance via a solid surface at ambient conditions. Form III of paracetamol, which is typically unstable in the bulk at standard conditions, can be stabilized with a model silica surface by a standard spin coating procedure followed by rapid heat treatment. Such a preparation technique allows the use of atomic force microscopy and grazing incidence X-ray diffraction measurements revealing detailed information on the morphology and structure of the polymorph. Furthermore, the results exhibit that this polymorph is stable over a long period of time revealing surface mediated stabilization. These findings demonstrate a novel approach to provide thermodynamic stability when applied to similar molecules with specific applications.

Source: Crystal Growth & Design

DOI: 10.1021/cg500573e

Authors: Heike M. A. Ehmann, Oliver Werzer

Institution: University of Graz

Language: English

Topic: Crystallization and Solubility Studies

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,144

Funders: European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Austrian Science Fund