A common alternative name for a rotary evaporator is a rotovap.
A rotary evaporator, often simply called a rotovap, is a piece of laboratory equipment primarily used for the efficient and gentle removal of solvents from samples by evaporation. This process is often performed under reduced pressure to lower the boiling point of the solvent, making it suitable for heat-sensitive compounds.
The instrument typically consists of a heating bath for the sample flask, a motor to rotate the flask, and a condenser to cool the evaporated solvent back into a liquid, which is then collected in a receiving flask. Its design allows for a large surface area for evaporation, speeding up the process.
Here's a quick overview of key facts about this essential lab tool:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Other Name | Rotovap |
| Primary Use | Solvent evaporation |
| Inventor | Lyman C. Craig |
The invention of the rotary evaporator by Lyman C. Craig revolutionized solvent removal in various chemical and biological laboratories, providing a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional methods. For more detailed information, you can refer to the Rotary evaporator Wikipedia page.
