Use of 3D mathematical modelling to understand the heat transfer mechanisms during freeze-drying using high-throughput vials

Screening potential vaccine formulations during freeze-drying is a time-consuming task. High-throughput systems, consisting of small vials inside aluminium well plates, can accelerate formulation selection. However, heat transfer variations among due to the edge effect entail deviations in final product quality and bias results. This work investigates how vial position plate impacts flow received primary drying step freeze-drying. Two 3D steady-state models were proposed compared evaluate time passing. One model, called distilled water represents containing only frozen layer at beginning drying. A second dried layers after has progressed (up half dried). Heat validated using flows determined by gravimetric analysis sublimation tests (shelf temperatures −40 −15 °C, chamber pressures from 4 65 Pa). At drying, model indicated that facing wall up 25% greater than those centre plate. As (product model), resistance mass tended counterbalance impact wall.