Friability is when a tablet has the tendency to chip, crumble or break during compression. This usually happens when the tablet is being handled, packaged or transported.
Why Does Tablet Friability Matter?
Tablets are subjected mechanical shocks during handling, packaging, and transportation. The stress put on the tablets can lead to chipping to weak edges and in extremes, breaking or capping. So, it is important that the tablet has been formulated to be able to withstand this stress. It is also important that loose powder does not erode from the tablets, which could cause a handling hazard.
A weak tablet could be due to a number of factors, including poor tablet design, low moisture content, insufficient binder and over-lubrication.
Our Tests
To investigate the durability of a tablet, we use the Copley Friability Tester Model FRV 1000 with a single drum, which has been designed in accordance with the specifications that are in the Eur. Ph. Chapter 2.9.7 and USP Chapter <1216>.
At Merlin, we use the development setting to test the durability of prototype tablets, to see whether they will chip or break. This information can be helpful for early development tablet formulations.
Tablet friability testing involves weighing the sample of tablets and then placing them into a rotating drum. The drum is then rotated 100 times. The sample is then reweighed to find the % weight loss.
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