Liquid-Liquid Centrifugal Chromatography Column for Reduced Solvent Consumption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid-liquid centrifugal chromatography systems face challenges in efficiently separating constituents due to complexity, high maintenance costs, and solvent consumption, particularly in simulated moving bed systems where solid phase circulation is simulated with complex algorithms and periodic phase replacement.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing alternating cycles of solvent injection through a series of interconnected centrifugal chromatographic cells, where a lighter solvent and a heavier solvent are used to separate constituents with different partition coefficients by injecting the feed at an intermediate point and switching between solvent injection stages to collect constituents at opposite ends, reducing solvent consumption and maintenance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If simulated moving bed system with complex valves and pumps is used, then separation capability is achieved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex valve and pump system from the simulated moving bed apparatus, extracting only the essential separation function. The solid phase is replaced with liquid phases that circulate through a simplified column, eliminating the need for complex switching mechanisms while maintaining separation capability through liquid-liquid extraction principles
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses liquid phases (hydraulics) to replace the mechanical valve and pump system. The mobile phase and stationary phase liquids naturally circulate through the column based on density differences and flow rate control, eliminating the need for complex mechanical switching components
2Reliability
If periodic replacement of solid phases is performed, then separation efficiency is maintained, but production stops and operational time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous operation by using liquid phases that can be continuously circulated and regenerated. The mobile phase continuously extracts constituents from the stationary phase without requiring periodic shutdowns for phase replacement, maintaining uninterrupted separation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously recycles the liquid phases through the column. The mobile phase, after extracting constituents, is regenerated and reused, while the stationary phase is continuously refreshed through the circulation system, eliminating the need for periodic disposal and replacement
3Reliability
If conventional liquid-liquid centrifugal chromatography is used, then separation of constituents is achieved, but solvent consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the flow rates, densities, and composition ratios of the mobile and stationary phases to maximize extraction efficiency. By carefully controlling these parameters, the system achieves effective separation with minimal solvent consumption, reducing the volume of mobile phase required per unit of constituent extracted
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for efficient separation of multiple constituents with reduced solvent usage and lower operational costs, enabling continuous operation without production stops, and is suitable for separating optical isomers and other mixtures with varying partition coefficients.
Implementation Method 1
separation of the constituents of a feed in liquid solution of at least two constituents of different partition coefficients such that they are carried along at unequal velocities respectively by a light solvent and by a heavier solvent, in a device comprising at least one liquid-liquid centrifugal chromatographic column
Implementation Method 2
one or more piles of disks D driven in rotation... The cells and their communication circuits are filled with a stationary liquid phase kept in place by the centrifugal force and another mobile liquid phase that percolates through the stationary phase
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for separating constituents of a liquid feed by liquid-liquid centrifugal chromatography and to a device for implementing it. Constituents (A, B) having different partition coefficients such that they are respectively carried along at unequal velocities by a light solvent (l) and a heavier solvent (L), the feed is continuously injected at an intermediate point of a separation column (col), successive cycles comprising alternately a heavy solvent injection stage and a light solvent injection stage are carried out respectively at the two ends of the column consisting of the interconnection in series of at least one set of separation cells, and the separated solvents (FA, FB) are collected during each one of said stages at the column ends opposite the solvent injection points.