A System Based on Split-Flow Lateral-Transport Thin (SPLITT) Separation Cells for Rapid and Continuous Particle Fractionation

Abstract In this paper we introduce a versatile separation system based on the operation of some rather simple separation cells termed SPLITT cells. These thin cells are capable of acting singly or in linked arrays depending on the problem at hand. Separation in the cells can be driven by sedimentation, electrical, and related forces, by diffusion, and by various gradients. SPLITT cells resemble FFF channels and are subject to similar methods of construction, except for the requirement for various split-flow elements in different parts of the SPLITT system. The separation path, across the narrow dimension of the thin SPLITT cells, is extremely short (often <1 mm), leading to rapid separation. The system is capable of continuous operation. The combination of continuous processing and rapid separation is anticipated to provide a relatively high throughput, despite the low volume of the cells. The optimization of throughput is discussed. Because separation takes place without the distortion accompanying some...