It further minimizes the interactions between the product and container. It prevents high viscosity products from sticking to the internal surface of the vials giving the glass bottle a prefect transparency. Finally, due to its hydrophobic properties, the silicone coating ensures a higher restitution rate down to the last drop of the product.

The process starts with the washing of the inside of the vials. An aqueous emulsion of a polydimethysiloxanic oil (conforming to all pharmacopoeias) is then sprayed inside the vials.

Finally, the silicone film is applied onto the glass by passing the treated vials through the annealing lehr.

The Siliconization process can be applied to all vial sizes from 5ml to 1000 ml, type I,II, or III in either flint or amber.

Compatibility tests between the product formulation and the siliconized vials have to the performed. The resistance of the silicone coating depends on the chemical structure of the product formulation as well as its disolving power on silicone.

Since the silicone is partially organic, it breaks down at high temperatures around 350 "C. Siliconized vials should not be exposed to such high temperatures, the silicone coating might start degrading.

Siliconization is achieved in a class 100,000 or D clean room with the same air quality control standards used in the manufacture of the bottles.

Saint-Gobain Desjonqueres Pharmaceutical Division, 750 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10022. Tel: 212 223-7100; Fax: 212 223-8371.

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