Journal of Membrane Science & Technology

Abstract

Technical Challenges in Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics Industries in Nigeria: A Review of the Roles of Membrane Technology

Muritala KB* and Adewole JK

Pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries are being confronted with new and increasingly complex technical challenges, such as emulsion stability, metals impurity, air bubbles, hydration, and thickening. These technical challenges often result in the high cost of production, and waste of time, energy and raw materials. Over the years, a variety of research efforts has been made to address these challenges. Membrane technology is one of the promising approaches to solve these challenges. Membrane separation technology is a rapidly growing technology with much better flexibility, energy efficiency, and space economic than the traditional equipment currently used in these industries. This paper, therefore, looks into the possible applications of membrane technology in the pharmaceuticals and cosmetics industries. Specifically, issues of emulsions stability, the problem of thickening and hydration, and metals impurities are discussed. Then, the possible applications of the membrane in addressing these issues are presented. 

Published Date: 2019-05-07; Received Date: 2019-02-23