The estimation and application of surface energy data for powdered systems

Abstract

Estimates of surface energies of powders can be obtained by use of contact angle data, or by use of thermodynamic parameters (e.g. calorimetric determinations). In this review, the applications of surface energy data are considered in both a pragmatic manner, which could be applied directly to the formulation and production environment, and also in a manner that could aid fundamental research into both the understanding of mechanisms by which wetting is achieved and the ways in which wetting contributes to processes such as dissolution. The approaches, which are introduced and considered, centre around spreading coefficients and compensation analysis.