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7.25: Rotary Evaporation

  • Page ID
    97229
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    Rotary evaporator setup parts: condenser, water aspirator, rotary evaporator, ice water circulator
    Figure 7.13: Rotary evaporator setup.
    Table 7.23: Procedural summary for rotary evaporation.

    Be sure there is ice in the water circulator (if used).

    Fill a round bottomed flask no greater than half-full.

    Connect to the bump trap with a plastic clip.

    Lower the flask into the water bath to submerge the liquid (don't submerge the plastic clip).

    Turn on the vacuum source (vacuum will hiss).

    Rotate the flask at a moderate rate (one-third the maximum value).

    Close the stopcock in the apparatus (hissing will stop).

    Evaporate until solid forms or liquid level doesn't appear to change anymore, then evaporate an extra few minutes for good measure.

    To stop evaporation, reverse all steps:

    • Open the stopcock
    • Stop the rotation
    • Turn off the vacuum
    • Lift the flask from the water bath
    • Remove the flask

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