Capsule production

What types of capsules are there?

Capsules come in various forms. A distinction is mainly made between hard and soft capsules. Find out more about soft capsules here.

Manufacturing capsules

Capsules can be manufactured using a variety of methods, including polymerisation, emulsion formation, phase inversion and the utilisation of superamphiphobic surfaces.

Manufacturing hard capsules

Hard capsules are manufactured by immersing stainless steel moulding pins in a solution and subjecting them to a specific drying process. Mixtures of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and hydroxypropyl starch are used. The capsules are usually filled with powders, granules, tablets or smaller capsules.

Manufacturing soft capsules

In comparison to the hard capsules, the soft capsules are manufactured in a single step through a moulding and filling process. A gelatine mixture (comprising gelatine, water and softening agent) is applied to two stainless steel drums, and two gelatine ribbons are formed. The flexible gelatine ribbons are then drawn over two rotating forming rollers. This is the starting point for the formation of the capsule. At the same time, it is filled with the active ingredient and then dried.