Inkjet printing is novel approach in drug manufacturing that enables dispensing precise volumes of ink onto substrates. Optimal substrate properties including suitable mechanical characteristic are recognized as crucial to achieve desired dosage form performance upon administration. Identification of relevant quality attributes and their quantification is subject of intensive scientific research. The aim of this work was to explore applicability of different materials as printing substrates and explore contribution of the investigated substrate properties to its printability. Substrates were characterized with regards to uniformity, porosity, disintegration time, mechanical properties and drug dissolution. Experimentally obtained values were mathematically transformed and the obtained results were presented as relevant radar charts. It was shown that structurally different substrates may be employed for orodispersible films inkjet printing. Main disadvantage of single-polymer films was low drug load, and their printability was dependent on film flexibility and mechanical strength. Structured orodispersible film templates exhibited favorable mechanical properties and drug load capacity. Wafer edible sheets were characterized with high mechanical resistance and brittleness which somewhat diminished printability, but did not hinder high drug load. Obtained results provide insight into application of different materials as printing substrates and contribute to understanding of substrate properties which can affect printability.
Keywords: inkjet printing; mechanical properties; orodispersible films; printing substrates; structured orodispersible film templates; wafer edible sheets.