What are microscale distillations?
The distillation of a volatile liquid at microscale can be performed with setups similar to those described, consisting of a vessel, flask or vial, a distillation head, a thermometer adapter to control the temperature of the vapors, a condenser and a collector to collect the distillate.
The components of these assemblies for the Ace-Mayo unit are shown in the Figure.
Hickman column distillation
For small quantities of liquid, the Hickman column is a particularly recommended device, since it simplifies the assembly configuration and reduces liquid losses by condensation in the various parts of the assembly. It is a device as described in the Figure. The bottom of the column has a small curvature where the distillate is collected.
They are available with a side opening with a screw cap to facilitate the transfer of the distillate obtained by means of a Pasteur pipette.
The column is inserted between the flask and the condenser as shown in the figure.
A thermometer can be inserted so that the bulb is in contact with the vapors reaching the column to control the distillation temperature.
Vacuum distillation
This type of distillation can be carried out by connecting vacuum assemblies. If a Hickman column is used, the corresponding adapter is required.
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