The mechanical strength of film-coated tablets

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Abstract
The mechanical strength of film-coated tablets has been assessed using the diametral compression test. The results show that the influence of the film is more complex than that suggested by Stern (1976). The film may increase the breaking load of the core itself by acting as a padding material during the test and also by filling in surface irregularities. The film may also have enough intrinsic strength and elasticity to hold the core together once it has broken. The maximum breaking load to completely fracture the coated tablet is related to film properties, but the relation is not a simple one.