Distillation
Distillation is a physical method for separating liquid mixtures based on the selective evaporation and subsequent condensation of their components, taking advantage of the differences in their boiling points.
Main types of distillation
- Simple distillation: used when the difference between the boiling points of the components is large (more than 80 °C) or to separate a liquid from non-volatile impurities. Click here for more information.
- Fractional distillation: uses a fractionating column to separate mixtures whose boiling points are very close (e.g. in petroleum refining). Click here for more information.
- Vacuum (reduced-pressure) distillation: lets compounds boil at a lower temperature; it is ideal for heat-sensitive substances or those with very high boiling points. Click here for more information.
- Steam distillation: used to separate essential oils and aromas from water-insoluble plant materials. Click here for more information.