PROCESS OPTIMIZATION IN ULTRAFILTRATION - FLUX-TIME CONSIDERATIONS IN THE PURIFICATION OF MACROMOLECULES

An empirical model was developed to describe the flux of a complex milk protein suspension under ultrafiltration and diafiltration conditions. Flux decreased during ultrafiltration, but increased during diafiltration as the permeable solids concentration decreased. The “gel” model based on film theory was modified to describe the flux in terms of both retained and permeable solutes. The least-time processing strategy for a given end product concentration was also modelled and identified for this protein system. In general, ultrafiltration followed by diafiltration is best if protein purification is the goal. © 1991, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.