Abstract
This study highlights the growing collaboration between materials, engineering, and pharmaceutical research, enhancing drug efficacy and reducing side effects by optimizing polymer carriers for stability and compatibility. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Rhumix, glycerol, and citric acid were used as a carrier, drug, plasticizer, and stabilizer to create polymer-drug composites at varying temperatures. A twin-screw extruder was used to mix, melt, and extrude 60% PVA, 30% Rhumix, 9.9% glycerol, and 0.1% citric acid at (160, 170, and 180)°C with a screw speed of 50 rpm. DSC, FTIR, and optical/digital microscopy techniques characterized the composites. Results showed smooth extrusion of the PVA/drug composites, with the addition of plasticizers resulting in lower Tg and Tm. The extruded compounds exhibited varying colours and surface properties. The bonding values remained stable, indicating no significant interaction. DSC curves revealed two Tg values, indicating compatibility and immiscibility. Microscope images demonstrated improved drug dispersion at 160°C. Notably, the selected components, particularly PVA and glycerol, are widely recognised for their biocompatibility and low toxicity, as confirmed by previous studies, which support the potential suitability of these compounds for biomedical applications.