Work

Process Design for Continuous Crystallization of l-Tryptophan in Water–Alcohol Solvent Mixtures

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The study of solid–liquid equilibria in small molecules such as l-tryptophan (l-Trp), which possesses an α-amino group, an α-carboxylic acid group, and an indole compound, presents significant challenges. This research introduces several findings aimed at enhancing process efficiency and sustainability in downstream processing of l-Trp from fermentative origin via crystallization. Transitioning from batch to continuous processes allows for improved scalability and resource management. Furthermore, solubility measurements combined with thermodynamic data from the literature will provide deeper insights into molecular interactions and allow for systematic and data-driven process design. Lab-scale crystallization experiments in both batch and continuous operation allow for the assessment of the process feasibility and solvent impacts on the process and product. The focus is on process development that emphasizes material savings through strategic solvent selection and co-solvent choices.

Source: Crystals

DOI: 10.3390/cryst15040355

Authors: Lukas Hohmann, Robert Antpusat (née Hampel), Norbert Kockmann

Institution: TU Dortmund University

Language: English

Topic: Crystallization and Solubility Studies

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,534

Funders: Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Klimaschutz, Technische Universität Dortmund