Halogen-Bonding Stationary Phase for Lewis Base Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing chromatographic separation methods lack an effective mechanism to separate halogen-containing molecules and Lewis Base target molecules, limiting the diversity and efficiency of separation processes.

Innovation Solution

A stationary phase comprising functional groups with halogen-substituted aromatic rings that facilitate halogen bonding, allowing for the separation of target molecules based on their interaction with these groups, including the separation of proteins.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional chromatographic separation methods are used, then existing separation mechanisms can be applied, but the ability to separate halogen-containing molecules and Lewis Base target molecules is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation capabilityVSAvoidseparation effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a new separation parameter based on halogen bonding interactions. The stationary phase is functionalized with halogen atoms (Cl, Br, I) that can form halogen bonds with Lewis Base target molecules. This changes the separation mechanism from conventional approaches (e.g., hydrophobicity, ion exchange) to a new parameter involving halogen bonding strength, which allows selective separation of molecules based on their halogen bonding capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The stationary phase is constructed as a composite material combining a base material (e.g., silica, polymer beads) with halogen-substituted aromatic functional groups. This composite structure provides both the mechanical stability of the base material and the selective halogen bonding capability of the functional groups, enabling reliable separation of target molecules based on halogen bonding interactions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If halogen bonding is used for separation, then a new degree of freedom in chromatographic separation is achieved, but the complexity of the stationary phase functional groups increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation degree of freedomVSAvoidstationary phase structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stationary phase is segmented into distinct functional components: the base material providing structural support and the halogen-substituted aromatic functional groups providing selective binding. This segmentation allows the halogen bonding functionality to be introduced as a modular component that can be independently optimized without redesigning the entire stationary phase structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The halogen bonding functionality is concentrated in specific local regions of the stationary phase through the use of halogen-substituted aromatic groups attached to the base material. This local quality approach allows halogen bonding to occur at specific sites while the rest of the stationary phase maintains its structural integrity and flow characteristics, managing complexity through localized functionalization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Enables the separation of a broad range of target molecules, including proteins, through unique chromatographic principles, enhancing the degree of freedom in chromatographic separation and improving separation efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

Halogen bonding refers to the non-covalent interactions of halogen atoms X in some molecules, RX (Lewis Acids), with negative sites, such as the lone pair electrons of a Lewis base, on others, the neutral or anionic Lewis Bases.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHalogen bonding:

Data Source

PatentUS20260061338A1Material and method for performing a separation based on halogen bonding
Publication Date: 2026.03.05 MERCK PATENT GMBH
  • US20260061338A1 patent drawing
  • US20260061338A1 patent drawing
  • US20260061338A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This invention relates to a new stationary phase carrying functional groups comprising a halogen substituted aromatic ring. Target molecules can interact with this stationary phase by halogen bonding. The stationary phase is suitable for SPE or chromatographic separations.