The name of the device commonly referred to as a "rotavap" is a rotary evaporator.
This device is specifically designed for the efficient and gentle removal of solvents from samples through evaporation in chemical laboratories.
4 Key Facts You Need to Know About Rotary Evaporators
1. Definition and Functionality
A rotary evaporator, often abbreviated as "rotavap" or "rotary evaporator," is a laboratory apparatus used primarily for the removal of solvents from samples.
It operates by rotating the sample in a flask, which is then heated in a water bath.
The system is placed under reduced pressure, which lowers the boiling point of the solvent, facilitating its evaporation.
The evaporated solvent is then condensed and collected, allowing the more volatile components to be separated from the less volatile sample.
2. Components and Operation
The rotary evaporator consists of several key components: a high-speed motor that spins the evaporation flask, a water bath for heating, a condenser for solvent separation, and a vacuum system.
The rotation of the flask ensures a larger surface area for evaporation, enhancing the efficiency of the process.
The reduced pressure and controlled heating conditions prevent the sample from overheating and ensure a more uniform heating distribution.
3. Inventor and Commercialization
The concept of a simple rotary evaporator system was invented by Lyman C. Craig.
It was first commercialized by a Swiss company in 1957.
Walter Büchi is credited with developing the first commercial rotary evaporator, which significantly simplified laboratory work by efficiently separating substances with different boiling points.
4. Applications and Variations
Rotary evaporators are versatile and are used not only in traditional chemical research but also in molecular cooking for preparing distillates and extracts.
They come in various sizes, with bench-top units common in research settings and larger models used in commercial chemical operations.
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