Abstract

In this investigation, the effect of kaolin on hydration kinetics and swelling behavior of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose ocular film was studied. Gradual reduction in the extent of and rate of swelling of the film was noticed with increasing the content of kaolin. Peppas model revealed that the diffusion coefficient was increased in the presence of kaolin and also increased for the film of higher viscosity polymeric film. Peppas model suggested that the polymeric film followed the diffusion-controlled swelling mechanism. The Peleg rate constant was increased from 1.69 to 44.39 h/g indicating the initial water adsorption rate in the decreasing order while Peleg capacity constant did not vary significantly in the presence and absence of kaolin indicating lack of remarkable change of water adsorption capacity. The presence of kaolin in the film could maintain a safe corneal hydration level.