Complexation extraction, also known as reactive extraction, is a highly efficient separation technique. It is primarily applied to the separation of substances with similar physical and chemical properties that are difficult to separate using conventional extraction methods—particularly organic compounds containing polar functional groups such as organic acids, phenols, and amines.
The core principle lies in the introduction of a specific complexing agent into the extractant. This agent can undergo a reversible chemical reaction with the target substance to form a complex that exhibits higher solubility in the organic phase. As a result, the target substance is selectively “captured” from the aqueous phase and transferred into the organic phase.
Key Features
- High selectivity: The complexing agent reacts exclusively with specific target molecules, enabling precise extraction from complex mixtures.
- High efficiency: The chemical reaction significantly enhances mass transfer driving force, allowing effective extraction even when the target substance is present at low concentrations.
- Reversibility: After extraction, the complex can be decomposed by adjusting process conditions (e.g., temperature or pH), allowing recovery of the target substance and regeneration of the extractant for reuse.
Complexation Extraction Process
Mixing and Reaction
The aqueous phase containing the target substance and the organic phase containing the complexing agent are subjected to high-speed shearing and intensive mixing within a centrifugal extractor, enabling the completion of the complexation reaction.
Centrifugal Separation
Using centrifugal force, the two fully reacted phases—the loaded organic phase and the raffinate phase—are rapidly and thoroughly separated based on their density differences.
Stripping and Recovery
The loaded organic phase, containing the target substance, enters the stripping section, where process conditions (such as pH adjustment) are modified to decompose the complex. The target substance is thus “released” into the stripping solution, achieving high-purity recovery.
Solvent Recycling
The regenerated organic phase, which still contains the complexing agent, is recycled back into the extraction system for reuse, significantly reducing operational costs and improving process sustainability.
Powerful Synergy: Complexation Extraction Coupled with Centrifugal Extractor
The complexation extraction process places exceptionally high demands on equipment—it requires not only highly efficient mixing but also rapid and complete phase separation to prevent complex decomposition and secondary phase entrainment. The CWL-M series centrifugal extractor from Zhengzhou Tiei Extraction is the ideal solution, purpose-designed to meet these stringent requirements.
Key Advantages of the Combined Process
- Ultimate Efficiency, Second-Level Separation
Zhengzhou Tiei Extraction centrifugal extractor utilizes centrifugal force to achieve complete phase separation within just a few seconds. This rapid action is crucial for complexation extraction, as it minimizes back-mixing caused by reversible reactions, ensuring consistently high extraction efficiency. - Short Residence Time, Protecting Active Substances
The extremely short residence time of materials inside the equipment is particularly beneficial for time-sensitive or easily decomposed substances, such as bioproducts and pharmaceutical intermediates. It effectively preserves the activity and quality of target compounds during extraction. - High Selectivity & Superior Yield
The intense shear mixing provided by the centrifugal extractor ensures full contact between the complexing agent and the target molecules, promoting complete reaction. Together, they can achieve extraction efficiencies approaching 99%, while significantly enhancing product purity. - Continuous and Automated Operation
Designed inherently for continuous production, Tiei Extraction’s centrifugal extractor can easily realize multi-stage counter-current extraction, perfectly aligned with complexation extraction processes. Automated control minimizes human error, guarantees consistent product quality, and greatly reduces labor costs. - High Adaptability and Easy Integration
Whether for laboratory-scale testing, pilot-scale, or large-scale industrial production, Tiei Extraction provides suitable models for every stage. Its modular design allows seamless integration into existing production lines and flexible adaptation to various material systems and process conditions.
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