Monte Carlo simulation of solute extraction via supercritical carbon dioxide from poly(ethylene glycol)

The partitioning of ethylbenzene between poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and supercritical carbon dioxide was studied at 308.15, 328.15 and 348.15 K and 10, 15.5 and 20 MPa with PEG-400, 600 and 900 using Monte Carlo molecular simulation. The effect of a cosolvent was also studied with either 5% ethane or 5% n-octane added. Ethylbenzene favored the supercritical phase most when the density was highest, and while ethane had little effect, the addition of n-octane increased the amount of solute dissolved in carbon dioxide. Increasing polymer molecular weight led to more solute in the PEG-rich phase. This coincides with a higher amount of dissolved carbon dioxide that preferentially solvates ethylbenzene.

► Ethylbenzene partitioning between poly(ethylene glycol) and carbon dioxide.
► The highest carbon dioxide density dissolves the most solute.
► Ethane as cosolvent has little effect; added n-octane enhances solubility.
► Increasing carbon dioxide in poly(ethylene glycol) retains more solute.