Abstract:
An apparatus for measuring indentation and breaking hardness of medicinal tablets (for instant drug release, controlled drug release, etc.) is disclosed. Instead of, or in addition to, measuring indentation optically, the depth of indent under known loads is measured by counting stepper motor movements. A line of ratio of both measurements over a practical range of compression forces is then inspected for signs of nonlinearity and inflection points, indicating capping or lamination propensity. The method and its proposed embodiment will help optimize pharmaceutical tablet formulation and manufacturing conditions, and thus avoid potential quality problems. It will be appreciated that this apparatus can be used not only in the field of medicinal tablets but also for other types of compacts used in other fields such as in veterinary medicine, formulations used for treatment in agriculture, compacts used as consumer products, ceramic and metallurgical powder compacts and formulations used for various industrial applications, and the like.
Abstract:
To inhibit fouling by marine life of an undersea structure, the part of the structure to be protect (32) is provided with a plurality of elongate fronds (20) of flexible plastics material, such that they can move against each other under the influence of water currents to create a constantly moving surface. Preferably the device is backed by a foam layer (50) which inhibits water movement against the surface of the structure thus reducing corrosion.