Freeze Dryer

Definition

Lyophilization is another word for freeze drying derived

from the Greek words “solvent-loving.” Lyophilized
material is easily rehydrated.

Freeze Drying is the process of removing moisture from a

frozen product using vacuum.
 Definition

Sublimation is the freeze drying process in which

solvents, such as water, pass directly from the solid
to the vapor state.

The rate of sublimation is dependent on

temperature and pressure.
Purpose

Freeze Drying preserves the

integrity of the product’s
biological and chemical
structure and activity.
 Process

Prefreezing
Primary Drying
Secondary Drying
 Pre-freezing

Slant Freezing Stub Freezing

Gives more surface area Limited surface area.
to decrease freeze dry time.
Not the preferred method
Preferred method. to pre-freeze.
 Pre-freezing

Shell Freezing

Increases the surface area to volume ratio by

spreading out the frozen product inside the
vessel.
 Primary Drying

Process Requires:
Prefrozen sample.
Temperature difference between sample and
collector establishes a vapor pressure
differential.(collector should be 15-20°
colder than the sample.
Heat applied to the sample.
High vacuum.
 Primary Drying

Cross Section View of Valve and Flask

Frozen
Sample

Water
Vapor

Heat Heat
 Primary Drying

A Vacuum Pump encourages the free flow of water

molecules from the product by evacuating the
environment around the product. It removes non-
condensable gases.

• Minimum Requirement - .133 mBr

 Endpoint Determination

The endpoint of primary drying can be determined by:

Visual inspection. (cake or powder)
Measurement of condensable gasses via vacuum gauge.
Product temperature or weight.
Secondary Drying

The process of reducing the

7- 8% residual moisture
content still present in the
visually dry sample.
Secondary Drying

Isothermal desorption is the

removal of bound water from a
sample. Requires a temperature
higher than ambient and 1/3-1/2
the time necessary for primary
drying.
 Bulk Tray Dryer

An economical alternative to the

Stoppering Tray Dryer when
stoppering under a vacuum is not
required.
Lyophilize bulk samples such as
soil, liquids or plant materials.
Bulk Tray Dryer

3 large shelves for bulk trays or

batches of serum bottles, vials or
ampules.
200-watt heater on each shelf
heats from –20° C* to 60° C.
LCD display of set point and
temperature (C°) for each shelf.

*Shelves are not cooled by the Bulk Tray Dryer.

The only cooling is from the frozen sample.
Bulk Tray Dryer

Vacuum release valve allows

user to open the door.
Option to purchase with or
without six-port support shelf
Option to purchase two additional
heated shelves
 Bulk Tray Dryer Accessories

Support Shelf with valves installed provides flexibility to

connect flasks and other freeze dry glassware. It also elevates
Tray Dryer above work surface of Freeze Dry System to allow
unobstructed access to the collector.

Left: Heated Shelf With Sensor

Right: Stainless Steel Bulk Tray