Separation of amino acid enantiomers using supported liquid membrane extraction with chiral phosphates and phosphonates

A series of dialkyl and monoalkyl phosphates, phosphites and phosphinates based on (−)-menthol and (−)-nopol were synthesized and used as carriers for transport of aromatic amino acids through supported liquid membranes. Although all the compounds were found to be effective carriers (with transport rate dependent on their structure) the enantioselectivity of the process obtained was low or moderate. Aromatic amino acids were enantioselectively transported through supported liquid membranes containing chiral phosphates, phosphites and phosphinates as carriers. Download full-size image