Dynamic Vapor Sorption (DVS)

Surface Area Expertise

What is Dynamic Vapor Sorption?

DVS is a crucial technique for measuring how pharmaceutical materials interact with moisture or solvent vapors as a function of partial pressure. Understanding these interactions is critical for assessing stability, hygroscopicity, and the effect of moisture on drug formulations and pure active ingredients.

At Particle Analytical, we use the SMS Advantage 1 DVS to measure sorption isotherms at relative humidity levels from 0-98% with the ability to use both water and other solvent vapors.

The system operates at temperatures from 25°C to 85°C. It is compliant with Ph. Eur. 2.9.39. and includes a video imaging option.

How Particle Analytical can assist with DVS

  • Sorption Isotherm Measurement
    Accurately measures uptake and release of water or solvents at different humidity levels, providing insights into material hygroscopicity and solvent interaction. This information is critical to conclude on the optimal solid-state form selection for development.
  • Quantification of amorphous content in API
    Difference in the amount of absorbed vapor by amorphous versus crystalline fraction present in the material give a unique opportunity to develop method to quantify amount of amorphous fraction in materials. Organic solvent vapors help to enhance sensitivity and robustness of such methods.
  • Stability Assessment
    Helps evaluate the effects of moisture exposure on material stability, crucial for long-term storage and shelf life.
  • Formulation Development
    Supports the design of moisture sensitive formulations by identifying how materials interact with environmental conditions, ensuring product stability.
  • Temperature and Humidity Control
    Analyzes sorption behavior across a wide range of humidity/partial pressure and temperature conditions.
  • Quality Control Support
    Ensures consistent moisture or solvent interaction properties across batches, supporting product quality and regulatory compliance.
  • Video Imaging Option
    Allows for visual analysis of material changes during moisture or solvent sorption, providing further insights into structural or morphological changes.