Research Articles
The hexane-ethyl acetate-methanol-water system for the separation of theaflavins from black tea (Camellia sinensis) using high-speed counter-current chromatography
Authors:
N. Savitri Kumar ,
Institute of Fundamental Studies (IFS), Hantana Road, Kandy, LK
P. A. Nimal Punyasiri,
Tea Research Institute, Talawakelle, LK
About P. A. Nimal
Biochemistry Division
W. A. M. B. Wijekoon
University of Peradeniya, LK
About W. A. M. B.
Department of Chemistry
Abstract
Theaflavins (TFs) from black tea leaves were separated using high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC). Isobutyl methyl ketone (4-methyl-2-pentanone) was used to separate the TFs from a hot water extract of black tea leaves. Three different compositions of the biphasic solvent system hexane–ethyl acetate-methanol-water (2:5:2:5 solvent system A) 1:4:1:4 (solvent system B) and 1:5:1:5 (solvent system C) were studied. The aqueous phase was used as the mobile phase in the head to tail elution mode. Flow rates of 2.0 – 2.8 mL min-1, revolution speeds of 800-1000 rpm and a 200 mg sample of TF in 5 mL of the aqueous phase with settling times 17-18 secs (solvent systems B and C) gave the best separations. Three peaks were separated in the HSCCC traces obtained using solvent systems B and C, and each peak was monitored by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).Separation of theaflavin monogallates was not achieved, but solvent system Cresulted in a complete separation of theaflavin and theaflavin digallate.
How to Cite:
Kumar, N. S., Punyasiri, P. A. N., & Wijekoon, W. A. M. B. (2016). The hexane-ethyl acetate-methanol-water system for the separation of theaflavins from black tea (Camellia sinensis) using high-speed counter-current chromatography. Ceylon Journal of Science, 45(2), 79–86. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/cjs.v45i2.7391
Published on
13 Sep 2016.
Peer Reviewed
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