Mathematical Modelling for the Diffusional Release of a Dispersed Solute from a Cylindrical Polymer Matrix into Finite External Volume

Abstract

An exact solution has been obtained for the release kinetics of a solute from a cylindrical non-erodible polymeric matrix into a finite external volume when the initial solute loading is greater than the solubility limit in the matrix. The moving boundary solution is derived based on the combination of variable method. The formulas of the moving boundary and the fractional solute release are given. The moving boundary and the fractional solute release profiles have been calculated at various solute loading levels and different external volumes. The obtained results show that as the external fluid volume increases, the fractional release at any time and the maximum fractional release increase. In addition, for a given external volume, as initial drug loading increases, the fractional release at any time decreases.