SL Formulation: Concentrated Solutions and the Stability of Soluble Active Ingredients
Active Ingredient Dissolution Technology, Solubility, Compatibility and Product Stability Control, with Industrial Manufacturing Processes and Contract Development and Production Solutions.
Soluble concentrates (SL) are liquid formulations in which the active ingredient is completely dissolved in a suitable medium. Unlike suspension concentrates (SC), where solid particles remain dispersed, SL formulations provide a homogeneous solution.
The main technical challenge of this technology is to maintain the solubility and stability of the components, both in the concentrated product and after dilution.
At AFEPASA Global Solutions, we develop and manufacture SL formulations for third parties, adapting the composition and production conditions to the properties of each active ingredient.
Solubility as the Starting Point
The development of an SL formulation begins with an assessment of the physicochemical properties of its components. Solubility, compatibility with the liquid medium, and behaviour under variations in temperature or pH are fundamental factors in determining formulation feasibility.
One of the key considerations is establishing an appropriate concentration. Although an active ingredient may dissolve completely during manufacturing, certain storage conditions can affect its solubility and lead to the formation of crystals or precipitates.
For this reason, the final concentration must be defined taking into account the expected storage conditions and the results of stability testing.
How Is a Soluble Concentrate (SL) Manufactured?
Manufacturing is based on a controlled mixing and dissolution process designed to achieve a uniform and reproducible composition.
The process begins with the preparation of the liquid medium, followed by the incorporation of the components in a defined sequence. The order of addition and agitation conditions are adjusted to promote dissolution and prevent incompatibilities.
When necessary, parameters such as pH and temperature are also controlled, while respecting the stability limits of the active ingredient.
Unlike SC formulations, soluble concentrates do not require milling processes, as their purpose is to achieve complete dissolution rather than the dispersion of solid particles.
Preventing Crystallisation and Ensuring Stability During Dilution
The stability of an SL formulation must be assessed to verify that the active ingredient remains dissolved and that the product retains its properties throughout storage.
Quality controls help identify potential crystallisation, precipitation or incompatibility between components.
It is also essential to evaluate the product's behaviour during dilution, as water composition and preparation conditions can influence the stability of the final solution.
Therefore, stability must be verified both in the concentrated product and under the intended conditions of use.
Applications of SL Formulations
Soluble concentrates are used in agricultural products and other technical applications requiring soluble active ingredients in liquid form.
Their main characteristics include the homogeneous distribution of the active ingredient, ease of dosing, and the possibility of adjusting concentration to meet specific product requirements.
Their use requires prior verification of the solubility, compatibility and stability of each formulation.
SL Contract Formulation and Manufacturing at AFEPASA
At AFEPASA Global Solutions, we provide development and manufacturing services for soluble concentrates (SL), from initial technical assessment through to industrial production.
Depending on the requirements of each project, our services may include feasibility studies, pilot trials and process validation.
Manufacturing can be organised in production campaigns, with bulk supply or final packaging, while maintaining quality control, traceability and batch documentation.
Our SL contract formulation and manufacturing services focus on ensuring solution stability, industrial process reproducibility and compliance with each customer's technical specifications.
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