Abstract: The present invention provides methods for purifying polymers. In each embodiment of the invention disclosed herein, a supercritical fluid is contacted with an organic solution that includes a polymer to be purified dissolved in an organic solvent. The supercritical fluid extracts the organic solvent from the organic solution. Impurities such as residual monomers and process solvents are removed with the organic solvent and supercritical fluid, thereby purifying the polymer. The methods of the invention are particularly suitable for use in the purification of biodegradable polymers for use in pharmaceutical applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for purifying polymers. In each embodiment of the invention disclosed herein, a supercritical fluid is contacted with an organic solution that includes a polymer to be purified dissolved in an organic solvent. The supercritical fluid extracts the organic solvent from the organic solution. Impurities such as residual monomers and process solvents are removed with the organic solvent and supercritical fluid, thereby purifying the polymer. The methods of the invention are particularly suitable for use in the purification of biodegradable polymers for use in pharmaceutical applications.

Abstract: A method for producing micro and/or nanoparticles by contacting an emulsion with a supercritical fluid. The method can be used to produce an aqueous suspension of particles that include a drug encapsulated in a polymer. The drug and polymer are dissolved in an organic solvent to form an organic solution. The organic solution is pumped into contact with an aqueous solution in an in-line homogenization device to form an emulsion. Immediately after the emulsion in the in-line homogenization device, the emulsion contacts the supercritical fluid. The supercritical fluid extracts the organic solvent from the oil droplets of the emulsion, causing the drug and polymer to precipitate into the aqueous phase of the emulsion and thereby form an aqueous suspension of particles that include a drug encapsulated in a polymer.