Abstract: An example includes a field-flow fractionation device for the continuous separation of sample components including a channel comprising a sample inlet and a plurality of sample outlets, the channel being for coupling to a flow generator for translocating the sample components along the channel in a first direction from the sample inlet to the plurality of sample outlets, an actuator, which is not the flow generator, coupled to the channel, for translocating the sample components in a second direction, at a first angle with the first direction, an array of electrodes for connection to an AC power source, being in a path taken by the sample components in the channel, arranged in a plurality of rows, and in such a way that adjacent rows can be set at different potentials and every other row can be set at the same potential.

Abstract: An example includes a field-flow fractionation device for the continuous separation of sample components including a channel comprising a sample inlet and a plurality of sample outlets, the channel being for coupling to a flow generator for translocating the sample components along the channel in a first direction from the sample inlet to the plurality of sample outlets, an actuator, which is not the flow generator, coupled to the channel, for translocating the sample components in a second direction, at a first angle with the first direction, an array of electrodes for connection to an AC power source, being in a path taken by the sample components in the channel, arranged in a plurality of rows, and in such a way that adjacent rows can be set at different potentials and every other row can be set at the same potential.

Abstract: A method for continuously separating components from a sample includes providing a field-flow fractionation device including: a channel coupled to a flow generator for translocating the sample components along the channel in a first direction, an actuator for translocating the sample components in a second direction, at an angle with the first direction, and an array of electrodes electrically or capacitively connected to an AC power source, operating the actuator so as to translocate the sample components in a second direction at an angle with the first direction, operating the AC power source so as to generate an AC electric field between adjacent rows, and operating the flow generator, collecting sample components from the sample outlets.