GSK Design Project 2020 Combined

University of Wolverhampton
6ET012 - Chemical Engineering Design Project
Project Guide
2020/2021
Relevant Industry

Page 2 of 2
1. Project Brief
The β-lactam antibiotic, Amoxicillin, is the key API in Augmentin and Amoxil. The synthetic
methods for obtaining amoxicillin typically involve more than 10 steps, require low-reaction
temperatures (-30°C), and use toxic solvents (e.g. chlorinated solvents). It is reported that the
production of one kilogram of amoxicillin generates up to about 70 kg of non-recyclable waste.
In recent years an enzymatic route of
manufacture has been developed as
replacement of the current synthetic chemical
route to deliver more throughput and higher
quality product, as well as coping with the
need to reduce the cost of goods (up to 13%)
and to improve environmental sustainability.
In this “green process”, Hydroxyl-
phenylglycine methyl ester (HPGME) and 6-
amino penicillanic acid (6-APA) are catalysed
by immobilised biocatalysts to form
amoxicillin.
Using the process suggested in the
publication by Alemzadeh etal design a plant
for the production of enzymatic amoxicillin
with an annual throughput of 1000 metric
tonne.
In addition, design a suitable waste treatment
plant to reduce the expected BOD/COD to
UK legal limits.
Alemzadeh, I., Borghei, G., Vafi, L. and Roostaazad,
R., 2010. Enzymatic synthesis of amoxicillin with
immobilized penicillin G acylase. Scientia Iranica.
Transaction C, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering,
17(1), p.106.