Direct resolution of (±)-ephedrine and atropine into their enantiomers by impregnated TLC

Direct resolution of (+/-)-ephedrine and atropine into their enantiomers was achieved by normal-phase thin laver chromatography on silica gel plates impregnated with optically pure L-tartaric acid and L-histidine, respectively, as chiral selectors. The mobile phases enabling successful resolution were different combinations of acetonitrile-methanol-water. The spots were detected with iodine vapours and the detection limits were 2 and 6 mug, respectively, in terms of the racemate. The effects of concentration of the impregnating reagent, temperature and pH on resolution have been studied. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley Br Sons, Ltd.