Finite element analysis of pharmaceutical tablet compaction using a density dependent material plasticity model

Finite element method (FEM) simulations of pharmaceutical tablet compaction using a Drucker–Prager Cap (DPC) model are presented in which material properties are relative density (solid fraction) dependent. Results from the solid fraction dependent model are compared to those from a constant property model. Predictions from the solid fraction dependent model more closely match experimental measurements of surface hardness, punch force, and material displacement than the constant property model. These results suggest that FEM simulations using the DPC model should account for material property dependence on local solid fraction.