Hot-stage Microscopy in Pharmaceutical Industry

Abstract

Hot-stage microscopy (HSM) affords combined light microscopy and thermal analysis, enabling the study of materials as a function of temperature and time. This combination involves visual examination and gives valuable information on the compound regarding its melting point, phase transformation, new phase formation, solid-state interactions, particle and solid dispersions analysis during heating. HSM gives a unique opportunity to visually follow thermal changes. Model cases of HSM application show its current usage in pharmaceutical industry thus supporting and inspiring its research.