Application of Magnetic Field to Accelerate the Crystallization of Scopolamine Hydrobromide

In this paper, a quick and efficient method for preparation of scopolamine hydrobromide with high purity was introduced, named as magnetic field induced crystallization. Based on the solubility difference between scopolamine and scopolamine hydrobromide, salifying crystallization was selected and then treated with the synergistic effect of magnetic field to achieve the aim of scopolamine purification. The effects of crystallization solvents and magnetic field intensity on the crystallization process of scopolamine hydrobromide, as well as the influnence of magnetic field on the crystal growth direction were investigated. The results revealed that after treatment under magnetic field, the shortened induction time (25.64%-75.46%), the increased purity of crystals (0.95%-2.92%) and the improved recovery rate (4.51%-10.78%) were achieved. Furthermore, we also found that magnetic field could destroy the hydrogen bond in the solution, and change the physical properties of the mother liquid, so as to promote the nucleation formation and crystal growth. The above experiments suggested that the external magnetic field has the potential to be a feasible method for scopolamine preparation.