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i-GREENPHARM
Illustrative image © nilufar nattaq (via Unsplash)

Projecti-GREENPHARM

Turning the screw on eco-friendly pharmaceuticals

AI and machine learning assisted development of greener formulations and pharmaceutical processes based on amorphous solid dispersions (i-GREENPHARM)

The i-GREENPHARM project aims to establish a proof-of-concept framework for more sustainable pharmaceutical practices. A central part of this is the introduction of hot-melt extrusion as a new production method, enhanced by AI and machine learning tools.

Project impact

Europe’s pharmaceutical industry has a big prescription to fulfil – it needs to lower its emissions while remaining efficient and innovative. To address this challenge, the organisations participating in the i‑GREENPHARM project are working together to develop eco-friendly pharmaceutical production. They are focusing on what is called hot-melt extrusion as an innovative production method for drugs. This heats medical powders or pellets into liquid, mixes them as they move through a rotating screw, and shapes them as they exit through a mould. The material then cools and hardens into its final form. This process can use less heat energy and less solvent than traditional manufacturing methods. The project is using new artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to optimise the process. To achieve this, the project brings together a diverse group of research and innovation organisations, including a pharmaceutical manufacturer in Greece, a data modelling company in Serbia and a research institute in Thailand. The partners are combining their expertise to compare four machine learning models to identify which can best predict new pharmaceutical formulations using hot-melt extrusion. The project aims to deliver a proof of concept for greener pharmaceutical production.

  • Coordinator

    Greece

    Anfarm Hellas AP Nikolaou Pharmaceutical Industry SA

  • Participating and partners countries

    • Cyprus
      • Sidroco Holdings Limited
    • Greece
      • Ethniko kai Kapodistriako Panepistimio Athinon
    • Ireland
      • Atlantic Technological University
      • University of Limerick
    • Serbia
      • Vodena DOO Kragujevac

    • Thailand
      • Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology
      • Chulalongkorn University
    • United Kingdom
      • Queen Mary University of London
      • University College London

  • Project duration

    1 January 2025 - 31 December 2028

  • Funding scheme

    MSCA Staff Exchange

  • Net EU contribution

    € 772 800,00

  • Strategic topic

    AI