Particle Characterisation Laboratories: one-of-a-kind CRO to bring sorption expertise to global laboratories
5 July, 2022 by
Surface Measurement Systems Ltd, Internal SMS-PCL

The Benefits of Using Dynamic Vapour Sorption (DVS) in the Pharmaceutical Production Development

Dynamic Vapor Sorption (DVS) is a state-of-the-art gravimetric measurement tool used to measure the amount of vapor absorbed or desorbed by a material, providing valuable insights into its moisture interaction properties. It is a particularly useful technique that can be used to measure amorphous content in materials by analyzing their moisture uptake behavior, as amorphous regions typically absorb more moisture than crystalline regions under controlled conditions. The general concept of DVS is to determine the change in the weight of a material as it interacts with a controlled environment of varying humidity or solvent vapor. By precisely monitoring the sample's weight as it absorbs or desorbs vapor at different humidity levels, the DVS provides insights into the material's sorption isotherms, moisture content, and kinetics. This technique is particularly useful for understanding water sorption behavior, assessing hygroscopicity, and characterizing amorphous versus crystalline content in materials.

In DVS, there is a well-published approach for measuring the amorphous content of DVS materials. This technique is based on measuring the solvent uptake by the sample before and after the crystallization processes using a solvent that induces crystallization. The method is very specific as even minute quantities of amorphous material therein have great chances of being detected. This method is particularly beneficial for assessing the quality and shelf life of pharmaceutical products, as it helps identify and manage unstable amorphous regions that can compromise their efficacy.

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We are excited to announce the upcoming launch of a new, state-of-the-art contract testing laboratory, Particle Characterisation Laboratories (PCL). Based in Hyderabad, India, this is the latest business venture from Surface Measurement Systems Holdings (SMS).

With over 30 years of extensive knowledge in materials characterization, Surface Measurement Systems is launching this new enterprise to bring advanced particle characterisation capabilities and expertise to the global research community. The new 6,000 sqr ft facility will house an extensive range of particle analysis instrumentation, enabling Particle Characterisation Laboratories to explore a range of properties and address key queries and issues that commonly arise in particle research.


With a range of particle engineering techniques available all under one roof, this one-of-a-kind CRO will work closely with clients to provide full method development and validation of all result produced, tailoring the analysis to the scope, schedule and goals of the customer. PCL will work closelt with client staff and provide detailed coaching and support to give a rounded understanding of analytical findings.

Employing a variety of analytical techniques, Particle Characterisation Laboratories will be able to provide insight into a range of properties and characteristics, including:

  • Powder Flowability
  • Powder Stickiness
  • Hygroscopicity
  • Material Stability
  • Polymorphism
  • Amorphous Content
  • Electrostatic Charge
  • Material Cohesiveness
  • Agglomeration
  • True Density
  • Particle Size
  • Particle Shape
  • Surface Energy
  • Heterogeneity
  • Diffusion Coefficient
  • Surface Area
  • Porosity
  • Zeta Potential
  • Molecular Weight
  • Morphology

Particle Characterisation Laboratories will be launching soon. To receive more updates as they become available, please subscribe for updates.