In recent years, photonics has played an important role in providing rapid, non-destructive methods and instantaneous measurements. The development of terahertz (THz) spectroscopy represents a new solution.
There is a wide range of tools in the pharmaceutical sector for the testing of API and in particular the distribution of API in the formulation (eg. distribution in the tablet). THz spectroscopy is a new tool using radiation included between infrared and microwaves spectral regions. It has the advantage of being non-ionising and of low-energy, allowing non-destructive measurements which can go into the sample (eg. the tablet) with an increased debt with respect to classical analyses. This technology has numerous applications in pharmaceutical industry.
The FEDER project TERA4ALL, which aims to develop THz technology in Wallonia, is closely linked to the pharmaceutical research program and activities of the UCL. With its expertise in API form control, the UCL will contribute to put forward THz spectroscopy as an innovative solution in the non-destructive identification of different solid state forms (polymorphs, solvates, co-crystals, ...) both in the drug substance as well as the drug product.
The TERA4ALL project is coordinated by the research centre Multitel asbl (http://www.multitel.be/). The CRA-W, two university units (UCL and ULg) and the Liège Space Centre (CSL) are also participating, and it is also supported by multiple Walloon industries. The project’s ultimate purpose is to propose THz as a new tool for non-destructive testing in industrial production chains.
For more information or sample testing feel free to contact Xavier Buol.