What are my surrogate options?

By definition, any material which can be substituted for another in a process can be used as a surrogate if it meets the following conditions:

• It behaves similarly to the material being substituted,
• It does not adversely affect the process or equipment,
• There is an adequately sensitive sampling and analytical method available to measure it.

Ideally, the surrogate will also be:

• Readily available and inexpensive,
• Easily cleanable,
• Pose a low hazard risk to people, equipment and facilities, and
• Pose a containment challenge at equal to or greater than the material it is modeling.

The most commonly used surrogates are: Lactose, Naproxen sodium, and Mannitol. Other common options include Acetaminophen, Riboflavin, Sucrose and Trehalose. The best surrogate option is a situational decision, depending upon a variety of selection drivers. Our Process Surrogates and Dusting Testing presentation outlines selection drivers and potential concerns for each of these surrogates.

How do I get information on sampling and order sampling media?

Sampling media is provided and included in the cost of analysis, and can be ordered online or by contacting our laboratory directly.

Does Maxxam provide bulk surrogate material to use in containment testing?

Maxxam does not provide the surrogate for the test. If seeking gram quantities, they can be ordered from many laboratory chemical supply companies. For tests requiring kilogram or larger quantities, acquisition through approved excipient suppliers of registered pharmaceutical companies is the best and most economical option.

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