Molecular distillation is a technique used for purification, concentration, and separation of substances with low volatility and/or temperature sensitivity.
It involves exposing distillate liquids to high temperatures under high vacuum conditions.
The process takes place in a short-path distillation setup, where the distance between the evaporator and the condenser is minimal, usually around 2 cm.
The goal of molecular distillation is to minimize loss due to surface hold-up of the vapor and ensure an immediate release from vapor to condenser surface.
This is achieved by creating a short vapor/liquid interface.
The technique is also referred to as short path distillation due to the minimal distance the vapor travels before condensing.
The working principle of molecular distillation involves pushing the material onto a warming surface using a pivoting scrubber.
The liquid of the material cautiously twists and leaves the warming surface, and it is quickly gathered by cooling the condenser.
This process aims to minimize contact material time and surface insulation.
Molecular distillation is commonly used for the purification and concentration of natural products, complex compounds, and thermally sensitive molecules such as vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
The low-pressure vacuum environment reduces the boiling points of substances, allowing for efficient separation and purification.
The technique is particularly suitable for substances that may be damaged or degraded by prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
In summary, molecular distillation is a short-path vacuum distillation technique that operates under high vacuum and high-temperature conditions.
It is used for the purification, concentration, and separation of substances with low volatility and/or temperature sensitivity.
The technique minimizes loss and ensures immediate vapor condensation, making it suitable for thermally sensitive molecules and natural products.
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