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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
12:29
Optimization of Crystal Growth for Neutron Macromolecular Crystallography
Published on: March 13, 2021
Thermodynamics and Crystallization Behavior of Meropenem Influenced by Solvent Composition and pH
Jinshen Ren1, Sanli Yin1, Yifu Zhang1
1National Engineering Research Center of Industrial Crystallization Technology, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 12, 2026
Summary
This study optimized the crystallization of meropenem trihydrate, a key antibiotic. Researchers found that pH and solvent composition significantly impact solubility and crystal habit, leading to improved production processes.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Meropenem trihydrate is a crucial carbapenem antibiotic.
- Optimizing its crystallization is vital for efficient pharmaceutical production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pH-dependent solubility of meropenem trihydrate in various solvents.
- To elucidate the factors influencing meropenem trihydrate crystallization for process improvement.
Main Methods:
- Laser monitoring dynamic method to determine solubility.
- Hirshfeld surface analysis and molecular electrostatic potential mapping.
- Molecular dynamics simulations to study solvation.
Main Results:
- Solubility exhibited a U-shaped profile dependent on pH.
- Solvent composition and pH influenced solubility, isoelectric point, and crystal habit.
- HS analysis revealed key intermolecular interactions; MEPs indicated electrostatic aggregation.
Conclusions:
- pH and solvent composition are critical parameters for controlling meropenem trihydrate solubility and crystallization.
- Understanding these factors enables the development of enhanced crystallization processes for this important antibiotic.
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