ASPreCISE

Preferential crystallisation by evaporation and separation of enantiomers

Background
The separation of enantiomers remains a critical challenge in the production of high-value compounds, particularly in the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and fine chemical industries. Traditional techniques such as chiral chromatography, diastereomeric salt formation, and temperature-dependent crystallisation often involve high operational costs, complex procedures, or limited applicability, especially when dealing with thermosensitive substances. There is a significant demand for efficient, cost-effective methods capable of delivering high enantiomeric purity without compromising the integrity of sensitive compounds.

Technology overview
A novel technique, known as ASPreCISE (Anti-Solvent Preferential Crystallisation Induced by Solvent Evaporation), has been developed for the effective separation of enantiomers from racemic mixtures. This method leverages controlled solvent evaporation at a constant temperature to preferentially crystallise one enantiomer, without the need for thermal cycling or chiral resolving agents. The approach is particularly advantageous for molecules with negligible solubility variance in response to temperature or those that are sensitive to thermal stress.

Stage of Development
 The ASPreCISE method has been successfully demonstrated at the laboratory scale with various compound classes.

Benefits

• Isothermal process: No need for temperature cycling, making it ideal for thermally labile compounds.
• High efficiency: Achieves significant optical purity and yield.
• Operational simplicity: Straightforward setup and fast execution.
• Cost-effectiveness: Does not require expensive chiral auxiliaries.

Applications
This technology offers broad applicability across several sectors, including:

• Pharmaceuticals – Separation of active enantiomers for drug development and manufacturing.
• Agrochemicals – Production of enantiomerically pure pesticides and herbicides.
• Flavour & Fragrance Industry – Isolation of preferred enantiomers in aromatic compounds.
• Advanced Materials – Chiral resolution in the synthesis of functional materials.
  
  

Opportunity
 ASPreCISE provides a robust alternative to conventional chiral separation techniques, particularly for compounds that are poorly resolved by existing methods. The method's scalability and adaptability make it an attractive solution for commercial exploitation across multiple sectors where chirality plays a critical role.

Seeking

Licensing, Assignement

IP

Patented (priority year 2009)

Patents issued in Europe, United States, Canada and India