(167f) Optimization of An Improved Single-Column Chromatographic Process for the Separation of Enantiomers

This work reports optimization studies of an improved single-column chromatographic (iSCC) separation process for the separation of guaifenesin enantiomers. Starting from a standard HPLC system, the iSCC process evolves through appropriate modifications in the conventional feed-injection system and fraction-collection mechanism with customized components that reduce the time delay and interruptions. Besides, the conventional fraction collection scheme has been redesigned to provide a larger degree of freedom that ultimately results in higher productivity and lower solvent consumption. A multi-objective optimization technique based on genetic algorithm (GA) is adopted to achieve maximum productivity and minimum desorbent requirement in the region constrained by product specifications and hardware limitations. Injection volume, cycle time, desorbent flow rate, feed concentration, and three cut intervals are considered as decision variables. The optimization results have been discussed using the Pareto fronts to identify the non-dominated solutions and show better performance compared with conventional injection and fraction-collection schemes. The effects of decision variables are also investigated showing that feed concentration is the most significant one affecting performance indicators of the process.