Preliminary design of a simulated counter-current chromatographic system for the separation of praziquantel enantiomers

Abstract

An empirical design approach for the separation of praziquantel enantiomers using a simulated counter-current (SCC) chromatographic system is presented. The elution volume of the two components to be separated was determined from batch chromatography and was used to evaluate the flow conditions in each section of the SCC unit. The effects of the flow-rate and the number of columns in each section, the throughput and the feed concentration on the extract and raffinate purity of the two streams were studied. This design approach provides sufficient accuracy and an adequate representation of the SCC system. It also provides valuable insight into the main factors governing the behaviour of the system.