Abstract: Semi-interpenetrating polymeric networks are described. More specifically, the semi-interpenetrating polymeric networks include at least two polymers that are closely associated. The first polymer is an ionic polymer that is not crosslinked. The second polymer is a cross-linked polymer that can be either another ionic polymer or a non-ionic polymer. Methods of making the semi-interpenetrating polymeric networks, articles containing the semi-interpenetrating polymeric networks, and methods of using the semi-interpenetrating polymeric networks are also described. The semi-interpenetrating polymeric networks can function as ion exchange resins.

Abstract: Described herein is a low back-pressure, solid phase extraction media for removing dissolved metals in a liquid. The solid phase extraction media comprises particles entrapped in a porous polymeric fiber matrix. The particles comprise at least one of a thiol-containing moiety or a thiourea-containing moiety, and the porous polymeric fiber matrix comprises a plurality of fibers and a polymeric binder.

Abstract: A grafted nonwoven substrate is disclosed having average fiber sizes of 0.7 to 15 microns, and a void volume of 50 to 95%, and a polymer comprising cationic aminoalkyl(meth)acryloyl monomer units grafted to the surface of the nonwoven substrate. The article may be used as a filter element to purify or separate target materials, such as oligonucleotides or monoclonal antibodies (MAb), from a fluid mixture.

Abstract: A process for capturing or concentrating microorganisms for detection or assay comprises (a) providing a concentration device comprising a sintered porous polymer matrix comprising at least one concentration agent that comprises an amorphous metal silicate and that has a surface composition having a metal atom to silicon atom ratio of less than or equal to 0.5, as determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS); (b) providing a sample comprising at least one microorganism strain; and (c) contacting the concentration device with the sample such that at least a portion of the at least one microorganism strain is bound to or captured by the concentration device.

Abstract: A process for capturing or concentrating microorganisms for detection or assay comprises (a) providing a concentration device comprising a sintered porous polymer matrix comprising at least one concentration agent that comprises diatomaceous earth bearing, on at least a portion of its surface, a surface treatment comprising a surface modifier comprising ferric oxide, titanium dioxide, fine-nanoscale gold or platinum, or a combination thereof; (b) providing a sample comprising at least one microorganism strain; and (c) contacting the concentration device with the sample such that at least a portion of the at least one microorganism strain is bound to or captured by the concentration device.

Abstract: Provided are filtration media, matrixes, and systems for liquid purification that utilize functional polymer particles. The functional polymer particles can comprise a cationic charge. Exemplary functional polymer particles comprise comprise [3-(methacryloylamino)propyl]-trimethylammonium chloride (MAPTAC) polymerized with trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TMPTMA).

Abstract: A grafted nonwoven substrate is disclosed having average fiber sizes of 0.7 to 15 microns, and a void volume of 50 to 95%, and a polymer comprising cationic aminoalkyl(meth)acryloyl monomer units grafted to the surface of the nonwoven substrate. The article may be used as a filter element to purify or separate target materials, such as oligonucleotides or monoclonal antibodies (MAb), from a fluid mixture.

Abstract: A simulated moving bed apparatus and methods are described for continuously separating a target molecule from a liquid mixture, using a simulated moving bed system. The simulated moving bed system includes a plurality of filter cartridge modules in serial fluid communication. Each filter cartridge module includes a volume of stationary phase particulates adjacent a porous substrate layer. Each filter cartridge module also includes recirculation piping in fluid connection with a filter cartridge outlet and a filter cartridge inlet.

Abstract: A single pass simulated moving bed apparatus and methods are described for continuously separating a target molecule from a liquid mixture, using a simulated moving bed system. The simulated moving bed system includes a plurality of filter cartridge modules in serial fluid communication. Each filter cartridge module includes a volume of stationary phase particulates adjacent a porous substrate layer. The volume of stationary phase particulates has a bed height of less than 1 centimeter.

Abstract: A single pass simulated moving bed apparatus and methods are described for continuously separating a target molecule from a liquid mixture, using a simulated moving bed system. The simulated moving bed system includes a plurality of filter cartridge modules in serial fluid communication. Each filter cartridge module includes a volume of stationary phase particulates adjacent a porous substrate layer. The volume of stationary phase particulates has a bed height of less than 1 centimeter.