Binder ICH-LQC light module for climate chambers size 720, with light dose control to ICH Q1B, 8012-2444

In size 720, photostability tests in accordance with ICH Q1B can be carried out with a larger sample volume, and, with the Binder ICH-LQC light module 8012-2444, can also be completed using a measured light dose rather than a calculated one. The module is designed for climate chambers of the KB PRO, KBF and KBF PRO series with development stage E7 in this size.

Light dose control via two spherical sensors

In addition to the VIS and UVA light cassettes, which together generate the CIE D65 spectrum in accordance with ICH Q1B, the ICH-LQC light module contains two additional spherical light sensors. The VIS sensor measures the illuminance of visible light, whilst the UVA sensor measures the irradiance of the UVA component; both have a spherical response characteristic for three-dimensional test specimens. The light dose to be achieved is stored in the climate chamber’s programme controller – typically 1.2 Mlx·h of visible light and 200 Wh/m² of UVA – and both light cassettes switch off independently of one another as soon as their respective doses have been reached. For flat samples, such as blister packs or printed packaging materials, the light dose must be increased by a factor of 1.5 according to the manufacturer, as the spherical sensors were originally calibrated for three-dimensional test specimens.

Higher light output thanks to the larger size

In size 720, the module achieves a VIS illuminance of 42 klx and a UVA irradiance of 51 W/m² at full light output, both measured using spherical evaluation at a distance of 12 cm from the light source. These higher values compared with the 260 and 470 sizes reduce the calculated test duration to 29 hours for the VIS component and 4 hours for the UVA component, totalling 33 hours. The LQC sensor system continuously monitors the actual dose achieved, rather than relying solely on this calculated duration. This is particularly relevant for larger sample quantities, where individual areas of the chamber may be illuminated slightly differently.

When the LQC version is worthwhile

Anyone requiring a documented, measured light dose rather than pure time-based programming – for example, for regulatory testing with a requirement for evidence – is better served by the LQC version than by the simpler ICH light module 8012-2442 for the same size. Both variants are installed on-site by the customer or a service partner and controlled via the climate chamber’s existing programme controller; no additional external control unit is required. Particularly in the case of the 720 size, with its larger usable volume, the LQC sensor system offers the added benefit that several sample batches can be tested simultaneously under a verifiably uniform light dose, rather than having to recalculate the irradiation time for each batch. For a pharmaceutical company with several parallel regulatory approval projects, this significantly reduces the coordination effort required between test series.

Typical applications

• ICH Q1B photostability tests with a documented, measured light dose
• Regulatory stability testing with a larger sample size
• Photostability tests on flat samples with an adjusted dose specification
• Recurring test series with high demands on reproducibility

According to the operating instructions, a CO₂ gas injection module cannot be operated simultaneously with the ICH-LQC light module, as both occupy the same interface on the climate chamber.

Technical details

Contents

• VIS light cassette with connection cable
• UVA light cassette with connection cable
• U-rails for mounting the light cassettes in the climate chamber
• Power supply box with ballasts/power supplies
• Profile rails and bolts for securing the power supply box to the climate chamber
• Data cable
• Mains cable
• Operating instructions
• Spherical VIS light sensor for light dose control
• Spherical UVA light sensor for light dose control

Customised requirements & procurement service

LT Laborhandel’s procurement service can advise you on choosing between the ICH light module and the ICH-LQC light module for the 720 size, as well as on other accessories for constant-climate cabinets. Details can be found on our services page.