Reduce API costs with proven flow technology, validated for efficient HCl salt formation
One of the most expensive steps in many API processes is converting the API into its HCl salt form, which is crucial for bioavailability, but traditionally slow, costly, and inefficient in batch. At Flowid, we help API manufacturers increase production capacity by making essential steps in drug production more cost-effective.
Our latest FlowLab results show a powerful alternative
Using our SpinPro flow reactor, we successfully produced API.HCl salts directly from neat HCl gas which eliminates the need for aqueous HCl and the time‑consuming aqueous work‑ups that come with it. The solid API.HCl formed cleanly and could be filtered in-line, making the process fast, continuous, and highly economical.
Why does this benefit API manufacturers?
- Lower cost price per kg of API
- Higher margins thanks to fewer processing steps
- Efficient handling of gas/liquid and liquid/liquid multiphase reactions
- A proven route to safer, scalable, continuous production
To verify product formation in real time, we also collaborated with the University of Groningen (thanks to Wesley Browne), testing a new Raman spectroscopy probe capable of analysing highly scattering slurries. The probe read directly through PTFE tubing and enabled us to track conversion from API to API.HCl on the spot, which is a strong step toward fully automated process control.
The conclusion?
- API.HCl formation using HCl gas in flow works exceptionally well.
- SpinPro technology simplifies and accelerates a costly production step.
If you want to increase efficiency, reduce OPEX, and future‑proof your API production line, we would love to show you what SpinPro can do. Feel free to contact us.