Versatile simulated moving bed equipment and applications

Chim Yong Chin, Purdue University

Abstract

Simulated Moving Bed (SMB) chromatography is a continuous adsorption technique that increases column throughput, product purity and yield relative to batch chromatography. SMB process design using the model-based approach comprises of rate-model simulations, versatile SMB equipment, and the standing wave analysis tool, which gives the operating conditions. A novel pseudo-linear standing wave analysis was developed and validated; it does not require knowledge of the isotherms or mass-transfer parameters. A novel Versatile SMB (VSMB) equipment was developed and tested. Compared to other SMB units, the VSMB: (1) can be configured for open-loop, multi-zone and zone bypass operations; (2) does not require a carousel for column rotation; (3) does not contribute to product contamination; (4) allows independent port switchings; (5) allows modular addition of columns; and, (6) requires only constant speed pumps. The size-exclusion SMB purification of insulin, designed with the model-based approach, was improved through systematic failure analysis. Zone and pump configurations were investigated to determine the best pump configuration, the time window to recover from single pump failure, and contingency responses to failures. The robust pinched wave design created stable regions around the operating point. Applications developed using the model-based approach are presented: conventional four-zone SMBs for enantioseparations and organic acids separation using the nonlinear nonideal standing wave design; five-zone non-isocratic SMB for sugars isolation from biomass hydrolyzate using the pseudo-linear standing wave design; three-zone periodic-loading carousel for zinc ions removal from a protein mixture using the standing wave design for unfavorable mass-action; and, tandem SMB separation of three amino acids using the pseudo-linear pinched wave design. The different SMB configurations and applications prove the versatility of the VSMB equipment. SMB operating conditions from the standing wave analysis resulted in high product purities and yields. The model-based approach resulted in systematic process design of economical SMB processes.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Wang, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Chemical engineering

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