Understanding MCC Grades: PH 101 vs PH 102
Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) is one of the most widely used pharmaceutical excipients in solid dosage form manufacturing. Two grades — MCC PH 101 and MCC PH 102 — are used in the majority of tablet formulations. While both are compendially equivalent (USP, EP, IP, JP compliant), they differ significantly in particle size, flow properties, and ideal application.
As a leading MCC manufacturer in India, Maple Biotech supplies both grades under the AMBICEL brand — AMBICEL MCC 101 (MCC PH 101) and AMBICEL MCC 102 (MCC PH 102). This guide helps formulators select the right grade for their application.
Key Differences: MCC PH 101 vs MCC PH 102
| Property | MCC PH 101 (AMBICEL MCC 101) | MCC PH 102 (AMBICEL MCC 102) |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal particle size | 50 µm | 90 µm |
| Bulk density | 0.26–0.34 g/mL | 0.28–0.34 g/mL |
| Flowability | Moderate | Superior |
| Compressibility | Excellent | Very good |
| Primary use | Wet granulation, binder | Direct compression |
| Drug load capacity | High | Moderate-high |
When to Use MCC PH 101
MCC PH 101 with its smaller 50 µm particle size offers excellent compressibility and binding strength. It is the preferred choice for:
- Wet granulation processes where MCC acts as binder and filler
- Formulations requiring high tablet hardness
- High-drug-load formulations where filler-binder properties are critical
- Tablets requiring superior mechanical strength (e.g., coated tablets)
- Formulations with poorly compressible APIs
When to Use MCC PH 102
MCC PH 102 with its larger 90 µm particle size provides significantly better powder flowability. It is ideal for:
- Direct compression tablet manufacturing (no granulation required)
- Formulations where powder flow is critical (high-speed tablet presses)
- Tablets with moderate drug load where flow is prioritized over ultimate hardness
- Capsule filling operations
- Cost-efficient manufacturing (eliminates granulation step)
Pharmacopoeial Compliance
Both AMBICEL MCC 101 and AMBICEL MCC 102 are compliant with:
- USP (Microcrystalline Cellulose)
- EP (Cellulose, Microcrystalline)
- IP (Microcrystalline Cellulose)
- JP (Microcrystalline Cellulose)
Why Choose AMBICEL MCC from Maple Biotech?
Maple Biotech Pvt. Ltd. is a WHO-GMP and ISO 9001 certified MCC manufacturer in India, supplying AMBICEL MCC to pharmaceutical companies across 75+ countries since 1982. We provide Certificate of Analysis (COA), MSDS, and regulatory support documentation with every batch.
For samples, pricing, and technical inquiries, contact us at sales@maplebiotech.co.in or visit our MCC product page.