ABSTRACT

Micromeritics is the study of the science and technology of small particles (1); this

includes the characterization of important properties such as particle size, size dis-

tribution, shape, and many other properties. All dosage forms from parenterals to tablets

at some point in their manufacture involve particle technology and the performance of

these dosage forms is much dependent upon the particle size of the drug and excipients.

Given the central role played by the particle properties in tablet production, this chapter is

devoted to the subject of characterizing particle properties; other chapters will examine

the physical and rheological properties of particles in powder beds and tablet production.