To stay competitive organisations need to harness and develop their human potential. Traditionally, a deficiency-based approach (DBA) was followed i.e. the focus was set on the development of employees’ deficiencies and weaknesses. However, focusing on an employee’s weaknesses and deficiencies was not sufficient. Consequently, a positive approach was developed that focuses on an individual’s strengths and talents. Unfortunately, exclusively focusing on only strengths or on weaknesses is not sufficient for optimum human functioning. Therefore, it is suggested that South African organisations make use of a balanced approach (i.e. a balanced focus on both the development and use of strengths and weaknesses). This will assist employees to be more positive and engaged in terms of their work. However, there seems to be a lack of research regarding the use of a balanced approach in organisations. The general objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between job resources, a strength-based approach (SBA), a DBA, occupational self-efficacy (OSE), and work engagement. This study was further aimed at determining whether OSE mediated the relationship between these variables among South African employees. An availability sample (N = 699) was taken from various South African organisations. This study made use of a quantitative, cross-sectional design to collect data; a biographical questionnaire; a job resources questionnaire (VBBA); an organisational SBA and DBA questionnaire; a OSE questionnaire and a work engagement questionnaire (UWES). Structural equation modelling was chosen as the method to test the hypothesised model. Mediating effects were tested by using the bootstrapping method. The research results have indicated that there is a positive correlation between autonomy, SBA, DBA, OSE and work engagement. This research found that no correlations existed between relationship with supervisor, information sharing and participation in decision-making and work engagement. There seems to be a significant relationship between autonomy, relationship with colleagues and OSE. From the results OSE can only be seen as the mediator between autonomy and work engagement. From this one can assume that using SBA and DBA in a balanced approach can lead to higher work engagement. Recommendations were made for the organisation and future research. / Thesis (MCom (Industrial Psychology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

To stay competitive organisations need to harness and develop their human potential. Traditionally, a deficiency-based approach (DBA) was followed i.e. the focus was set on the development of employees’ deficiencies and weaknesses. However, focusing on an employee’s weaknesses and deficiencies was not sufficient. Consequently, a positive approach was developed that focuses on an individual’s strengths and talents. Unfortunately, exclusively focusing on only strengths or on weaknesses is not sufficient for optimum human functioning. Therefore, it is suggested that South African organisations make use of a balanced approach (i.e. a balanced focus on both the development and use of strengths and weaknesses). This will assist employees to be more positive and engaged in terms of their work. However, there seems to be a lack of research regarding the use of a balanced approach in organisations. The general objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between job resources, a strength-based approach (SBA), a DBA, occupational self-efficacy (OSE), and work engagement. This study was further aimed at determining whether OSE mediated the relationship between these variables among South African employees. An availability sample (N = 699) was taken from various South African organisations. This study made use of a quantitative, cross-sectional design to collect data; a biographical questionnaire; a job resources questionnaire (VBBA); an organisational SBA and DBA questionnaire; a OSE questionnaire and a work engagement questionnaire (UWES). Structural equation modelling was chosen as the method to test the hypothesised model. Mediating effects were tested by using the bootstrapping method. The research results have indicated that there is a positive correlation between autonomy, SBA, DBA, OSE and work engagement. This research found that no correlations existed between relationship with supervisor, information sharing and participation in decision-making and work engagement. There seems to be a significant relationship between autonomy, relationship with colleagues and OSE. From the results OSE can only be seen as the mediator between autonomy and work engagement. From this one can assume that using SBA and DBA in a balanced approach can lead to higher work engagement. Recommendations were made for the organisation and future research. / Thesis (MCom (Industrial Psychology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

Niobium (Nb) and tantalum (Ta) are found in the same group (VB) of the periodic table of elements and therefore have similar chemical properties, which is the reason why they are difficult to separate. They are usually found together in various minerals of which the most important are columbite ((Fe, Mn, Mg)(Nb, Ta)2O6) and tantalite ((Fe, Mn)(Nb, Ta)2O6). Several methods have been used to separate Nb and Ta. Most methods use very high concentrations of hydrofluoric acid (HF) and sulphuric acid (H2SO4) as the aqueous phase, tributyl phosphate (TBP) as the extractant and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) as the organic phase. High extraction can be achieved, but the reagents used are hazardous. With the increasing demand of both pure Ta and Nb, as well as stricter environmental requirements, a need exists to develop a more efficient and safer technique to separate Ta and Nb. In this project the focus was on the solvent extraction (SX) of Ta and Nb with the possible application in a membrane-based solvent extraction (MBSX) process. For this purpose, eight different extractants were investigated, namely the cation exchangers di-iso-octyl-phosphinic acid (PA) and di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phosphoric acid (D2EHPA), the neutral solvating extractant 2-thenoyl-trifluoro- acetone (TTA), and the anion exchangers Alamine 336, Aliquat 336, 1-octanol, 2-octanol and 3-octanol. The extractant to metal ratio was varied from 0.1:1 to 10:1, while cyclohexane was used as diluent and 3% v/v 1-octanol was used as modifier for the organic phase. In addition, four different acids, hydrochloric acid (HCl), nitric acid (HNO3), sulphuric (H2SO4) and perchloric acid (HClO4), were used at different concentrations to determine the best combination for extraction. First, fluoride salts of Ta and Nb (Ta(Nb)F5) were tested and the optimum results showed that the highest extraction was obtained with PA and D2EHPA, irrespective of the type of acid used. Similarly, irrespective of the acid used, extraction with PA and D2EHPA increased with increasing acid concentration, followed by Alamine 336, Aliquat 336 and then TTA and the octanols. Extraction values of 97% Ta at 15 mol/dm3 and 85% Nb between 12 and 15 mol/dm3 were obtained. Although extraction of both Ta and Nb was achieved with all the acids tested, only H2SO4 showed sufficient separation (log D = 3) of the two metals in the 0 to 2 mol/dm3 acid range and 15 mol/dm3 for PA and D2EHPA, respectively. Precipitation, probably due to hydrolysis of the metals, occurred in the absence of acid when using Alamine 336, Aliquat 336 and TTA. The octanols showed the least amount of extraction of Ta and Nb, irrespective of the acid investigated. The optimum extraction was achieved with an E/M ratio of 3:1 of PA and D2EHPA as the extractant and 10 mol/dm3 H2SO4 in the aqueous phase. The NH4Ta(Nb)F6 salt solution was investigated using the optimum conditions for maximum extraction obtained from the Ta(Nb)F5 experiments, i.e. 4 mol/dm3 H2SO4 with an E/M ratio above 3:1 for the extractant PA and 4 mol/dm3 H2SO4 with an E/M ratio of 20:1 for the extractant D2EHPA. Kinetic equilibrium for PA was reached after 10 minutes and for D2EHPA after 20 minutes. The highest extraction of Ta (100%) above 3 mol/dm3 H2SO4 and Nb (54%) at 8 mol/dm3 with the highest separation factor of 4.7 with PA was achieved, followed by the 100% extraction of Ta above 5 mol/dm3 and 40% Nb at 10 mol/dm3 with the highest separation factor of 4.9 in D2EHPA. Although the aim of this study was the extraction and separation of Ta and Nb, the recovery or back extraction of the metals from the organic phase, as well as the membrane-based solvent extraction (MBSX) was briefly investigated. From the preliminary results obtained it became apparent that further research into the different aspects, including the type of stripping agent used, stripping agent concentration, effect of Ta to Nb ratio and different sources of Ta and Nb is needed to obtain the optimum conditions for the MBSX process and the subsequent recovery of Ta and Nb. / Thesis (MSc (Chemistry))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

Niobium (Nb) and tantalum (Ta) are found in the same group (VB) of the periodic table of elements and therefore have similar chemical properties, which is the reason why they are difficult to separate. They are usually found together in various minerals of which the most important are columbite ((Fe, Mn, Mg)(Nb, Ta)2O6) and tantalite ((Fe, Mn)(Nb, Ta)2O6). Several methods have been used to separate Nb and Ta. Most methods use very high concentrations of hydrofluoric acid (HF) and sulphuric acid (H2SO4) as the aqueous phase, tributyl phosphate (TBP) as the extractant and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) as the organic phase. High extraction can be achieved, but the reagents used are hazardous. With the increasing demand of both pure Ta and Nb, as well as stricter environmental requirements, a need exists to develop a more efficient and safer technique to separate Ta and Nb. In this project the focus was on the solvent extraction (SX) of Ta and Nb with the possible application in a membrane-based solvent extraction (MBSX) process. For this purpose, eight different extractants were investigated, namely the cation exchangers di-iso-octyl-phosphinic acid (PA) and di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phosphoric acid (D2EHPA), the neutral solvating extractant 2-thenoyl-trifluoro- acetone (TTA), and the anion exchangers Alamine 336, Aliquat 336, 1-octanol, 2-octanol and 3-octanol. The extractant to metal ratio was varied from 0.1:1 to 10:1, while cyclohexane was used as diluent and 3% v/v 1-octanol was used as modifier for the organic phase. In addition, four different acids, hydrochloric acid (HCl), nitric acid (HNO3), sulphuric (H2SO4) and perchloric acid (HClO4), were used at different concentrations to determine the best combination for extraction. First, fluoride salts of Ta and Nb (Ta(Nb)F5) were tested and the optimum results showed that the highest extraction was obtained with PA and D2EHPA, irrespective of the type of acid used. Similarly, irrespective of the acid used, extraction with PA and D2EHPA increased with increasing acid concentration, followed by Alamine 336, Aliquat 336 and then TTA and the octanols. Extraction values of 97% Ta at 15 mol/dm3 and 85% Nb between 12 and 15 mol/dm3 were obtained. Although extraction of both Ta and Nb was achieved with all the acids tested, only H2SO4 showed sufficient separation (log D = 3) of the two metals in the 0 to 2 mol/dm3 acid range and 15 mol/dm3 for PA and D2EHPA, respectively. Precipitation, probably due to hydrolysis of the metals, occurred in the absence of acid when using Alamine 336, Aliquat 336 and TTA. The octanols showed the least amount of extraction of Ta and Nb, irrespective of the acid investigated. The optimum extraction was achieved with an E/M ratio of 3:1 of PA and D2EHPA as the extractant and 10 mol/dm3 H2SO4 in the aqueous phase. The NH4Ta(Nb)F6 salt solution was investigated using the optimum conditions for maximum extraction obtained from the Ta(Nb)F5 experiments, i.e. 4 mol/dm3 H2SO4 with an E/M ratio above 3:1 for the extractant PA and 4 mol/dm3 H2SO4 with an E/M ratio of 20:1 for the extractant D2EHPA. Kinetic equilibrium for PA was reached after 10 minutes and for D2EHPA after 20 minutes. The highest extraction of Ta (100%) above 3 mol/dm3 H2SO4 and Nb (54%) at 8 mol/dm3 with the highest separation factor of 4.7 with PA was achieved, followed by the 100% extraction of Ta above 5 mol/dm3 and 40% Nb at 10 mol/dm3 with the highest separation factor of 4.9 in D2EHPA. Although the aim of this study was the extraction and separation of Ta and Nb, the recovery or back extraction of the metals from the organic phase, as well as the membrane-based solvent extraction (MBSX) was briefly investigated. From the preliminary results obtained it became apparent that further research into the different aspects, including the type of stripping agent used, stripping agent concentration, effect of Ta to Nb ratio and different sources of Ta and Nb is needed to obtain the optimum conditions for the MBSX process and the subsequent recovery of Ta and Nb. / Thesis (MSc (Chemistry))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

Professional development of teachers is a much-investigated area of research; however, teachers still complain that these endeavours do not cater for their specific needs. This problem arises from teachers‟ need to have more frequent professional development activities whereby it is possible to enhance their knowledge and skills regarding specific areas effectively. Multimedia, in other words the use of various media such as video, pictures, narration and animation, is a possible tool to address certain needs in professional development. Furthermore, the incorporation of multimedia into professional development by making use of a digital versatile disc allows for professional development to occur within a distance mode of delivery setting. This research was done to investigate and understand how Information Technology teachers experience the incorporation of multimedia into professional development by means of digital versatile disc. In order to accomplish this research endeavour, an investigation into the body of scholarly knowledge was executed focused on professional development of teachers, specifically with regard to needs expressed in previous studies. Furthermore, the body of scholarly knowledge regarding the implementation of multimedia as an enhancement to professional development was also investigated in order to synthesise how the researcher should go about implementing it. From the knowledge gained, the researcher developed the professional development digital versatile disc, specifically focused on the programming language Scratch. This programming language is an addition to the Information Technology syllabus and therefore teachers were assisted in their endeavour to acquire knowledge and skills regarding the implementation of such a new programming language. An empirical study was conducted, specifically focusing on the experience of three teachers to determine how they experience multimedia-based professional development. All three participants expressed that they enjoyed the use of multimedia in professional development and that a digital versatile disc of this type had a place in their professional development endeavours; however, a need for personal interaction with the facilitator as well as colleagues still exists. / Thesis (MEd (Computer Science Education))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

It is generally accepted that innovation of product, services and/or technologies, whether gradual or radical, is a source of competitive advantage for new and existing businesses. Adapting to changes in a volatile global market environment is a prerequisite for the sustainability of any business. The primary objective of this study is to explore the relationship between the cognitive, affective, lateral and vertical dimensions of interpersonal trust and organisational innovativeness within the Sasol Polymers, Chlor Alkali Business. In order to achieve the abovementioned objective, a literature review was conducted and a quantitative study undertaken using a target group of 189 individuals within the business. Primary data collection was undertaken in the form of a questionnaire which was compiled using items from standardised questionnaires published by previous researchers. Interpretation of the data revealed that the respondents are only moderately positive about the levels of interpersonal trust and organisational innovativeness within the business. In addition to this, although no causal relationship is implied, the research results revealed a practically significant positive correlation between the overall lateral, vertical, cognitive and affective-based trust constructs and the overall organisational innovativeness construct. The recommendation of this study centres on reinforcing all three facets of the trustworthiness construct mentioned in Meyer et al.’s (1995) model by constantly reminding people of the importance of “living” the Sasol Values. In addition to trustworthiness, the concept is further bolstered by firstly, ensuring that the competency and skills set gaps are identified and rectified, secondly, by continuously demonstrating caring behaviours and, thirdly, by ensuring that all interactions are governed by a set of accepted ethical behaviours. / Thesis (MBA)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

Professional development of teachers is a much-investigated area of research; however, teachers still complain that these endeavours do not cater for their specific needs. This problem arises from teachers‟ need to have more frequent professional development activities whereby it is possible to enhance their knowledge and skills regarding specific areas effectively. Multimedia, in other words the use of various media such as video, pictures, narration and animation, is a possible tool to address certain needs in professional development. Furthermore, the incorporation of multimedia into professional development by making use of a digital versatile disc allows for professional development to occur within a distance mode of delivery setting. This research was done to investigate and understand how Information Technology teachers experience the incorporation of multimedia into professional development by means of digital versatile disc. In order to accomplish this research endeavour, an investigation into the body of scholarly knowledge was executed focused on professional development of teachers, specifically with regard to needs expressed in previous studies. Furthermore, the body of scholarly knowledge regarding the implementation of multimedia as an enhancement to professional development was also investigated in order to synthesise how the researcher should go about implementing it. From the knowledge gained, the researcher developed the professional development digital versatile disc, specifically focused on the programming language Scratch. This programming language is an addition to the Information Technology syllabus and therefore teachers were assisted in their endeavour to acquire knowledge and skills regarding the implementation of such a new programming language. An empirical study was conducted, specifically focusing on the experience of three teachers to determine how they experience multimedia-based professional development. All three participants expressed that they enjoyed the use of multimedia in professional development and that a digital versatile disc of this type had a place in their professional development endeavours; however, a need for personal interaction with the facilitator as well as colleagues still exists. / Thesis (MEd (Computer Science Education))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

It is generally accepted that innovation of product, services and/or technologies, whether gradual or radical, is a source of competitive advantage for new and existing businesses. Adapting to changes in a volatile global market environment is a prerequisite for the sustainability of any business. The primary objective of this study is to explore the relationship between the cognitive, affective, lateral and vertical dimensions of interpersonal trust and organisational innovativeness within the Sasol Polymers, Chlor Alkali Business. In order to achieve the abovementioned objective, a literature review was conducted and a quantitative study undertaken using a target group of 189 individuals within the business. Primary data collection was undertaken in the form of a questionnaire which was compiled using items from standardised questionnaires published by previous researchers. Interpretation of the data revealed that the respondents are only moderately positive about the levels of interpersonal trust and organisational innovativeness within the business. In addition to this, although no causal relationship is implied, the research results revealed a practically significant positive correlation between the overall lateral, vertical, cognitive and affective-based trust constructs and the overall organisational innovativeness construct. The recommendation of this study centres on reinforcing all three facets of the trustworthiness construct mentioned in Meyer et al.’s (1995) model by constantly reminding people of the importance of “living” the Sasol Values. In addition to trustworthiness, the concept is further bolstered by firstly, ensuring that the competency and skills set gaps are identified and rectified, secondly, by continuously demonstrating caring behaviours and, thirdly, by ensuring that all interactions are governed by a set of accepted ethical behaviours. / Thesis (MBA)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013

Direct compression has gained significant interest since its advent in the late 1950's due to its potential ease compared to wet granulation. The primary prerequisites for powders used in direct compression are (i) good flow properties (ii) good compressibility and (iii) an acceptable dilution potential to accommodate a relative high percentage of active ingredient. Several filler/binders have been manufactured especially for direct compression and co–processing is one of the recent methods used to produce good compressible excipients with acceptable flow properties. In this study, lactose–based filler/binders were used which included simple and modified lactose materials (Granulac, Lactopress, Flowlac and Tablettose) as well as co–processed excipients (Starlac, Cellactose and Microcelac). A comprehensive literature study on direct compression revealed the importance of the physical properties of filler/binders such as interparticle forces, particle shape, particle size and distribution, powder density, particle surface structure and particle packing geometry which influence the flow of powders. All the materials were subjected to the various tests available to evaluate powder flow, namely (i) angle of repose (AoR), (ii) critical orifice diameter (COD), (iii) flow rate and percentage compressibility (%C) in terms of the powders' bulk and tap densities. The results of these tests confirmed the expected flow properties of the various filler/binders, with only one material exhibiting extremely poor flow properties. The following rank order in terms of all flow tests conducted was established; Starlac >> Microcelac ~ Flowlac >> Cellactose > Tablettose > Lactopress >>> Granulac. The co–processed filler/binders presented with superior flow compared to the other lactose–based materials. During the next phase of the study, the compaction properties of the various fillers were evaluated, employing direct compression. Compacts of pure filler were tabletted on an eccentric tablet press at different compression pressures (manipulated by the upper punch setting of the tablet press). The modified lactose filler/binders (Lactopress, Flowlac and Tablettose) exhibited unexpectedly poor compression profiles, where the co–processed filler/binders (Starlac, Cellactose and Microcelac) produced compacts with acceptable appearance and compact properties. Two lubricants (Mg–St or Pruv), which were tested separately in formulations were added since no compacts could be produced from the pure filler/binders. None of the modified lactose filler/binders, in combination with a lubricant, were able to produce an acceptable compact, since lamination occurred during compression. The co–processed filler/binders produced satisfactory compacts with the addition of a lubricant, but lactose–cellulose fillers (Cellactose and Microcelac) also required the inclusion of a disintegrant (Ac–Di–Sol) to induce satisfactory compact disintegration. Poor compressible active ingredients (paracetamol), which exhibit very poor flow properties, are usually difficult to use during direct compression. Many excipients (tested in this study) are formulated to accommodate these drugs and produce acceptable functional tablets. After identifying the best filler/binders (co–processed fillers), according to their flow and compressible properties, paracetamol was added to the formulations. During a pilot study, the percentage paracetamol these fillers could accommodate in a 400 mg tablet was determined. Both Microcelac and Cellactose could accommodate 24.5% w/w paracetamol, whilst Starlac could only accommodated 19.5% w/w. Paracetamol is well known for its tendency to cause tablet capping and lamination. An acceptable upper punch setting range (20–22) was chosen for tabletting, followed by quality control tests done. All three formulations produced suitable tablets for testing and exhibited good tablet properties. All tablets disintegrated within two minutes, with hardness profiles between 120 N and 148 N and friability percentages less than 1%. Dissolution studies, however, are probably the ultimate test to distinguish between the capability of filler/binders to release the optimum percentage drug after disintegration. Dissolution studies were done on all three formulations using the AUC (area under the curve) and IDR (initial drug release) as parameters to evaluate drug release. All tablets exhibited high initial dissolution rates (between 0.018 - 0.023 mg/min/ml) and 100% drug release was observed. Starlac presented with a lower amount of drug released compared to the other two, but can be explained by the lower percentage (19.5%) paracetamol present in the formulation. It was once again confirmed that the physical and compressible properties of potential directly compressible filler/binders play a major role in direct compression. It was concluded that co–processed filler/binders (Starlac, Microcelac and Cellactose) definitely exhibited better tabletting properties during direct compression. They were able to accommodate a certain percentage of paracetamol, although it was expected that they would accommodate a higher amount (at least 50% of total tablet weight). / Thesis (M.Sc. (Pharmaceutics))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.

Direct compression has gained significant interest since its advent in the late 1950's due to its potential ease compared to wet granulation. The primary prerequisites for powders used in direct compression are (i) good flow properties (ii) good compressibility and (iii) an acceptable dilution potential to accommodate a relative high percentage of active ingredient. Several filler/binders have been manufactured especially for direct compression and co–processing is one of the recent methods used to produce good compressible excipients with acceptable flow properties. In this study, lactose–based filler/binders were used which included simple and modified lactose materials (Granulac, Lactopress, Flowlac and Tablettose) as well as co–processed excipients (Starlac, Cellactose and Microcelac). A comprehensive literature study on direct compression revealed the importance of the physical properties of filler/binders such as interparticle forces, particle shape, particle size and distribution, powder density, particle surface structure and particle packing geometry which influence the flow of powders. All the materials were subjected to the various tests available to evaluate powder flow, namely (i) angle of repose (AoR), (ii) critical orifice diameter (COD), (iii) flow rate and percentage compressibility (%C) in terms of the powders' bulk and tap densities. The results of these tests confirmed the expected flow properties of the various filler/binders, with only one material exhibiting extremely poor flow properties. The following rank order in terms of all flow tests conducted was established; Starlac >> Microcelac ~ Flowlac >> Cellactose > Tablettose > Lactopress >>> Granulac. The co–processed filler/binders presented with superior flow compared to the other lactose–based materials. During the next phase of the study, the compaction properties of the various fillers were evaluated, employing direct compression. Compacts of pure filler were tabletted on an eccentric tablet press at different compression pressures (manipulated by the upper punch setting of the tablet press). The modified lactose filler/binders (Lactopress, Flowlac and Tablettose) exhibited unexpectedly poor compression profiles, where the co–processed filler/binders (Starlac, Cellactose and Microcelac) produced compacts with acceptable appearance and compact properties. Two lubricants (Mg–St or Pruv), which were tested separately in formulations were added since no compacts could be produced from the pure filler/binders. None of the modified lactose filler/binders, in combination with a lubricant, were able to produce an acceptable compact, since lamination occurred during compression. The co–processed filler/binders produced satisfactory compacts with the addition of a lubricant, but lactose–cellulose fillers (Cellactose and Microcelac) also required the inclusion of a disintegrant (Ac–Di–Sol) to induce satisfactory compact disintegration. Poor compressible active ingredients (paracetamol), which exhibit very poor flow properties, are usually difficult to use during direct compression. Many excipients (tested in this study) are formulated to accommodate these drugs and produce acceptable functional tablets. After identifying the best filler/binders (co–processed fillers), according to their flow and compressible properties, paracetamol was added to the formulations. During a pilot study, the percentage paracetamol these fillers could accommodate in a 400 mg tablet was determined. Both Microcelac and Cellactose could accommodate 24.5% w/w paracetamol, whilst Starlac could only accommodated 19.5% w/w. Paracetamol is well known for its tendency to cause tablet capping and lamination. An acceptable upper punch setting range (20–22) was chosen for tabletting, followed by quality control tests done. All three formulations produced suitable tablets for testing and exhibited good tablet properties. All tablets disintegrated within two minutes, with hardness profiles between 120 N and 148 N and friability percentages less than 1%. Dissolution studies, however, are probably the ultimate test to distinguish between the capability of filler/binders to release the optimum percentage drug after disintegration. Dissolution studies were done on all three formulations using the AUC (area under the curve) and IDR (initial drug release) as parameters to evaluate drug release. All tablets exhibited high initial dissolution rates (between 0.018 - 0.023 mg/min/ml) and 100% drug release was observed. Starlac presented with a lower amount of drug released compared to the other two, but can be explained by the lower percentage (19.5%) paracetamol present in the formulation. It was once again confirmed that the physical and compressible properties of potential directly compressible filler/binders play a major role in direct compression. It was concluded that co–processed filler/binders (Starlac, Microcelac and Cellactose) definitely exhibited better tabletting properties during direct compression. They were able to accommodate a certain percentage of paracetamol, although it was expected that they would accommodate a higher amount (at least 50% of total tablet weight). / Thesis (M.Sc. (Pharmaceutics))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.