Integrating continuous flow reaction and work-up: chiral amine resolution, separation and purification using a novel coalescing filter system.

To maximize the benefits of a continuous flow reaction, a continuous work-up is also needed. Herein, we present a process design and novel equipment for a continuous amine resolution reaction, integrated with liquid-liquid (L-L) extraction, back-extraction into a different solvent, and crystallisation purification for product isolation. The reaction, in iso-propyl acetate, flows through a heated fixed-bed reactor with solid supported lipase which catalyses the resolution of ()-1-phenylethylamine to give the ()-amide in 50% conversion and 96% enantiomeric excess (ee).