OPTIMIZATION OF THE SEPARATION OF MICRON-SIZED LATEX-PARTICLES BY GRAVITATIONAL FIELD-FLOW FRACTIONATION

Optimization of separation of latex particles by gravitational field-flow fractionation is described. The separation was performed in a ribbon-like glass wall channel 36 cm long; the steps of optimization were performed on the basis of both theoretical considerations and experimental measurements. Theoretical considerations were based on separation governed by the Earth's gravity and lift forces. The experimental conditions optimized were the quality of the surface of the channel wall and the type and concentration of the carrier liquid surfactant. As a result of the optimization it was possible to separate 5, 7, 10, 15, and 20 mum diameter particles in 4 min, using a 0.01 % solution of Tween 60 (nonionic surfactant) in an 80 mum high channel with its bottom modified by MS200 silicon oil.