Preparative Fractionation by Frontal Countercurrent Distribution

Abstract
The frontal (multiple-input) approach is applied to countercurrent distribution. Equations are derived for calculating the number of tubes required for a given separation or for calculating the amount of solute emerging at the intersection of two solute profiles. In both cases ideal behavior is assumed. The applicability of these equations to preparative fractionations is evaluated and the utility of the frontal technique demonstrated.