Enantioselective chromatography: an essential and versatile tool for the analytical and preparative separation of enantiomers

Chromatography on chiral stationary phases and electrophoresis in the presence of chiral selectors have become essential tools for the determination of enantiomeric purity in connection with synthesis and with biological studies of chiral molecules. Moreover, the chromatographic resolution of racemates on a preparative scale compels increasing recognition as alternative to 'preparing' pure enantiomers. The state-of-the-art of enantioselective chromatography in the analytical and preparative field is reviewed with particular emphasis on the achievements carried out in Switzerland.