The steps required to lyophilize a product in a batch process can be summarized as follows:
- Pretreatment / Formulation.
- Loading / Container (Bulk, Flask, Vials)
- Freezing (Thermal Treatment) at atmospheric pressure.
- Primary Drying (Sublimation) under vacuum.
- Secondary Drying (Desorption) under vacuum.
How long does it take to Lyophilize?
The majority of laboratory samples will lyophilize in 24 to 48 hours but there are certainly exceptions. The freeze drying process is dependent on a variety of factors that determine the amount of time the freeze drying process requires.
How do you speed up freeze drying?
Increasing the amount of the sample that is in contact with the glass sides of the flask, will increase the heat transferred to the sample and will result in a faster lyophilization rate. Room temperature variances will certainly affect the required length of time to freeze dry.
