Investigation of the extraction of natural alkaloids in Karr reciprocating plate columns: Fluid dynamic study

•Hydrodynamic study including liquid holdup and Sauter-mean diameter using 0.2 M Cyanex 923 diluted in xylene was investigated in a pilot-scale Karr column.•Hydrodynamic performance was modelled and regressed in an empirical correlation associated with mechanical power dissipation, phase flow rates, physical properties, and column geometry.•Hydrodynamic performance of morphine extraction using 0.2 M Cyanex 923/xylene was investigated at two Karr columns.•Model was validated from morphine extraction experiments.