DEVELOPMENT, OPTIMIZATION, AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PLANT-POLYMER HARD CAPSULES PREPARED FROM CORN STARCH, AGAR-AGAR, SODIUM ALGINATE, AND HPMC
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Keywords
Plant-based capsules; Hydrocolloid polymers; HPMC; Sodium alginate; Starch capsules; Agar-agar; Capsule formulation; Mechanical strength; Disintegration; Biopolymer blends.
Abstract
This study presents the development and optimization of a plant-polymer–based hard capsule using corn starch, agar-agar, sodium alginate, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). A standardized sequence of gel preparation, pH adjustment, polymer blending, dipping-molding, and controlled drying was employed to obtain mechanically stable capsule shells. The prepared capsules were evaluated for hardness, moisture content, dimensional uniformity, disintegration time, surface characteristics, and pH stability. Results showed superior properties compared to previously reported plant-based capsules, with hardness ranging from 4.8–6.2 N, moisture level of 7.5–9.8%, and rapid disintegration within 11–16 minutes. FTIR and DSC confirmed polymer compatibility, while SEM revealed a uniform morphology without cracks. Overall, the study offers an eco-friendly, economical alternative to gelatin capsules while improving functional performance, demonstrating that a quadruple-polymer matrix can significantly enhance capsule mechanical strength and dissolution behavior.
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Pooja Jamwal
Dept. of Pharmacy, SunRise University, Alwar, Rajasthan
Dr. Saraswati Vithalrao Vijapure
Dept. of Pharmacy, SunRise University, Alwar, Rajasthan
