Morphological changes of ethylene/vinyl acetate-based controlled delivery systems during release of water-soluble solutes

Thin slabs of theophylline and monomer albumin release systems were prepared by dispersing 212-300 μm and 300-25 μm particles respectively, of these bioactive agents in a methylene chloride solution of ethylene/vinyl acetate (EVAc) copolymer (40 wt% vinyl acetate), and evaporating the solvent at low temperatures according to the Langer—Folkman technique. Compositions containing 21.41 wt%, 31.04 wt% and 40.0 wt% albumin, and 19.32 wt% theophylline were prepared. Solute release experiments were performed in deionized water at 37 ± 0.1°C under perfect-sink conditions. The concentration of released solute was determined by measuring the absorbance of the UV spectra at 276 nm for albumin and 272 nm for theophylline. Both solutes could be released for long periods of time at controlled rates. The main mechanism of release was established to be solute dissolution and diffusion through the generated, waterfilled pore structure. Photomicrographs present the main features of this pore network. Mercury porosimetry was used to determine the pore volume and size of pores for freezedried slabs before, during and after the dissolution/diffusion/release process. Considerable pore collapse was observed and pore diameters of 8-650 μm were detected. In addition to solution diffusion through large pores, diffusion might occur through small constrictions between large pores or through a pore network of much smaller pores created in the matrix.