Phase behavioral effects on particle formation processes using supercritical fluids

The application of supercritical fluid (SF) processing in pharmaceutical re search is increasing particularly in the field of particle formation for dr ug delivery systems. The SF processes have benefits over the existing parti cle formation methods in terms of improved control, flexibility and operati onal ease. This review highlights the fundamental concepts of fluid phase b ehaviour and their influence on the various processes involving particle fo rmation with supercritical fluids. Several phase behaviour systems are disc ussed to provide an insight into the factors influencing the process paths and their effects on the characteristics of the particles.