What role does cellulose play in the production of capsule shells and what properties can it ensure for capsules? ​

celluloseIt is an indispensable core raw material in the production of capsule shells. Its core function is to construct the main structure of the capsule shell, while ensuring the key performance of the capsule from multiple aspects such as molding, stability, and medication safety. It is an important foundation for the stable functioning of capsule preparations.

Core role: The "skeleton builder" of capsule shells

As the core film-forming substrate, cellulose molecules (such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, etc.) have a linear structure and are tightly connected by hydrogen bonds, forming continuous, uniform, and dense thin films. This layer of film is the main body of the capsule shell, replacing some of the functions of traditional gelatin, especially suitable for vegetarian capsules or situations where gelatin is allergic.

Providing molding and support capabilities, cellulose film can quickly solidify and maintain a specific shape in the dipping and drying processes of capsule production. Whether it is the upper and lower shell of the hard capsule or the capsule structure of the soft capsule, it can rely on the support of cellulose to complete molding, and is not easily deformed by slight external collisions after molding.

By adjusting the processing adaptability, the viscosity of cellulose can be adjusted through the process to meet the speed and temperature requirements of different production equipment, ensuring that the capsule shell maintains good integrity before filling drugs and avoiding problems such as powder leakage and cracking during filling.

Key Performance Guarantee: The "Guardian" of Capsule Quality

Mechanical properties:celluloseEndow the capsule shell with sufficient toughness and hardness, which can resist compression and friction during production and transportation, avoid damage and brittleness, and maintain structural stability during manual or machine filling, without deformation or adhesion, ensuring production efficiency and product qualification rate.

Chemical stability: Cellulose has stable chemical properties, is not easily oxidized or hydrolyzed, and almost does not undergo chemical reactions with the vast majority of drug components, which can avoid drug failure due to interaction with the capsule shell. At the same time, it has strong adaptability to environmental humidity and temperature, and is not easily affected by moisture absorption, softening or drying under conventional storage conditions, which extends the shelf life of the capsule.

Biocompatibility and Solubility: Cellulose is a natural polymer material with good biocompatibility, non toxicity, and non allergenicity. More importantly, it can absorb water and expand, dissolve and disintegrate in a timely manner through the infiltration of gastrointestinal fluids in the body, without hindering drug release. It can ensure that drugs dissolve within the specified time, ensuring the bioavailability and stability of drug efficacy.

Adaptability and safety:celluloseThe adsorption capacity of drugs is extremely low, and it will not adsorb the active ingredients of drugs, resulting in a decrease in efficacy. It is suitable for various types of drugs, including drugs that are easily hygroscopic, sensitive to dampness and heat, as well as drugs that are unstable in acidic and alkaline environments. Meanwhile, plant-based cellulose can meet the medication needs of vegetarians and religious taboos, expanding the scope of application of capsule formulations.