D

Distilland

Quick Reference
Also Known AsStill pot contents, still charge, flask residue (during distillation)

What is Distilland?

The liquid mixture subjected to distillation from which a component is being separated. It is the starting material placed in the distillation flask. The distilland contains the less volatile components that remain after the more volatile fraction has distilled over.

Properties & Characteristics

The distilland is the liquid mixture placed in the distillation flask that is subjected to heating and vaporisation during a distillation process. As the more volatile component(s) evaporate and are collected as distillate, the composition of the distilland changes, becoming progressively enriched in the less volatile component(s). In fractional distillation, the distilland composition changes continuously.

Uses & Applications

In analytical and preparative distillation, monitoring the distilland composition helps determine when collection of a fraction is complete and when to discard fore-runs or residues. In essential oil steam distillation, the aqueous distilland is discarded after the oil distillate is collected.

Safety Information

The distilland in the flask can become concentrated in less volatile, more hazardous components (e.g., high boiling point solvents or residual reactive compounds). Never let the distilland flask go to dryness unless specifically intended, as concentrated residues may be explosive (e.g., peroxide concentrates).

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Distilland
Synonyms Still pot contents, still charge, flask residue (during distillation)

Frequently Asked Questions

The liquid mixture subjected to distillation from which a component is being separated. It is the starting material placed in the distillation flask. The distilland contains the less volatile components that remain after the more volatile fraction has distilled over.

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