Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for pharmaceutical aerosol device development: Simulations and processes to facilitate success

CFD modeling for product development requires knowledge of the capabilities of state-of-the-art software and the adoption of a well-controlled simulation workflow. This article will review previous work in this area, illuminating CFD capabilities and the processes and considerations required to create a trusted, useful, predictive simulation to support the product development process.

This article shows some of the capabilities of industrial CFD for pharmaceutical aerosol applications, from the perspective of implementing CFD modeling within a product development process. The fundamental workings of the standard finite volume method with Lagrangian particle tracking are explained in context, with the requirements and suggested processes for successful modeling. Looking to the future, those with relevant “CFD skills” may be attracted to careers in the pharmaceutical sector. Industry access to more advanced CFD packages, bespoke capabilities and personnel with training and experience can come through partnerships with research organizations and universities, which often retain their own high-performance computing facilities.