Abstract: By regulating separation system's relative parameters, this broad and generalized separation process is disclosed to distinguish the fundament between this invention and chromatography for superior cost-effectiveness. A different mass transfer contacting method and differential set-up between two phases are applied on the disclosed apparatus to achieve purposed efficiency. This continuous separation process can be furnished as the integration of multiple partial fluidized beds or cells; operated under designated pressure level to instantaneous and simultaneous proceeding of determined mass-transfer phenomena. All zones within the process are simultaneously proceeded to isolate one product or multiple products from feed mixtures with other proceeding zones of feeding, impurity stripping, regeneration and washing. The differential mass transfer contact method is disclosed for efficient consumption of both solid phase and mobile phase.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new separation method and a device therefor, especially to a device and method for chromatographic chemical analysis. In the method according to the invention, the driving of the mobile phase fluid in, through and out the separation channel, said channel being defined by at least two channel elements, is mainly caused by a relative movement of at least one channel element compared to at least one of the other channel elements preferably the movement of the mobile phase fluid and the sample to be separated through the separation channel is sustained by relief elements, such as one or more protrusions, recesses, holes or irregular porous-like structures, which are arranged on at least one of the channel elements.

Abstract: A centrifuge partition chromatography device for separating a liquid into at least two phases, comprising at least one flat ring (3a) that can be rotationally driven around its axis, disposed in a substantially vertical position. Said ring (3a) comprises a plurality of cells (7) whose dimensions are greater in a first direction than the dimensions in a second direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first, disposed side by side and distributed along the periphery of said ring (3a) in addition to being connected to each other in a series by inlet and outlet ducts (15) terminating in the opposite respective ends of each cells (7) enabling the circulation of liquid. The invention is characterized in that said ducts (15) are disposed in such a way that the liquid supply jet penetrates the cells (7) in a direction that includes at least one radial component relative to the axis of rotation of said ring (3a).

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting the presence of at least two predetermined known materials in a test sample are disclosed. The apparatus includes a sample addition station for adding a sample to a test column in the apparatus, a reagent station, a washing station, a detection station for detecting signals on the snares of the test column due to the presence of the predetermined known materials in the sample, and conveying means for conveying the test column from the sample addition station to the reagent station, washing station, and detection station. The test sample is introduced into a test column which has at least two snares for capturing the predetermined known materials, and the snares are separate spatially one from another. Each snare has a capture material specific to the associated predetermined known material. The detection station has a plurality of detectors for detecting signals on the snares of the test column due to the presence of the predetermined known materials in the sample.

Abstract: Device for treating a fluid, including a number of columns which are arranged on a support frame and through which the fluid is guided. This support frame rotates with respect to the environment and communication with the environment is achieved by means of a valve. This valve encompasses a plate which is rotationally fixed to the support frame and opposite to which there is a plate whose feed and discharge is in communication with the environment. This latter plate, or auxiliary member, can execute a limited reciprocating rotation, in order to achieve an indexing movement with respect to the first plate. These movements are realized with electromotors and wherein position sensors are provided.

Abstract: Preparative-scale separations of chiral compounds were achieved by high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) using a multilayer coil planet centrifuge equipped with a 325 mL capacity column. The separations were performed by two different procedures both utilizing a set of N-(3,5-introbenzoyl)-D,L-amino acids as test samples with N-dodecanoyl-L-proline-3,5-dimethylanilide as a chiral selector (Cs). The HSCCC separations were carried out with a two-phase solvent system composed of hexane/ethyl acetate/methanol/water where the chiral selector was added to the organic stationary phase. A second procedure using pH-zone-refining CCC yielded characteristic fused rectangular peaks in which the two isomers were resolved with less than 5% of overlap.

Abstract: The object is to provide a multistage liquid-solid fractional extraction apparatus in which a separation procedure of a large amount of mixture can be carried out exactly and effectively in a simple procedure by use of a partition difference in liquid chromatography. The multistage liquid-solid fractional extraction apparatus comprises multiple containers 3 capable of accommodating liquid and solid for a liquid-solid extraction, a liquid inlet part 1 and a liquid outlet part 2 equipped with in each container, a pipe 4 to carry liquid from the liquid outlet part of the forward container to the liquid inlet part of the backward container, an efflux protecting device (filter 5) for solid, which is equipped with at the above liquid outlet part, and along with these a stirring device to let solid in said container move in liquid by virtue of the density difference between solid and liquid when rotating or swinging the container 3.

Abstract: The invention relates to a CAC device comprising a stationary column head, a stationary eluate collecting ring, a rotating body which is located between said column head and said collecting ring and which can rotate about a vertical axis and contains a chromatographic separating medium; and a drive device. Said rotating body (1) is connected to a rotating platform (4) at its bottom end. This rotating platform (4) is slidingly, sealingly guided on the eluate collecting ring (5) and has an extension on the underside. The extension can be coupled to a drive shaft (2) of the drive device (8) with a rapidly detachable connection and the stationary column head the rotating body (1) with the rotating platform (4) and the attached eluate collecting ring (5) can be connected to form a CAC module and can be removed from the drive shaft (2) as a unit. The invention also relates to an inverse CAC method using the inventive device.

Abstract: The invention related to an annular chromatograph including a particle bed which rotates on a rotary plate (3), said plate having eluate drainage lines, with regard to a stationary base and a stationary feeder head (10) with continuous feeder lines. The annular chromatograph has a central column (2) provided on a rotary plate and extending upwards through the feeder head. A tightening device (16,17) for pressing the feeder head (10) on the cylinder sleeve (6) is arranged on said column.

Abstract: Disclosed is an assembly for continuous annular chromatography provided with a relative movement between one partial bed in the form of a cylinder jacket, at least one feeding position for liquid feeding material and at least one collection position for every emerging fraction of the feeding material out of the partial bed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of separating a first solute A and a second solute B using (simulated) moving bed chromatography. According to the present invention at least one of a) a feed stream; and b) a desorbent stream comprises an organic solvent. The use of different solvent liquids for the feedstream and the desorbent stream results in an increased difference in partition coefficients for solute A and solute B. According to the present invention it is possible to obtain solute A in an extract stream in a form which is more concentrated in comparison to the concentration of solute A in the feedstream.

Abstract: Preparative-scale separations of chiral compounds were achieved by high-speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) using a multilayer coil planet centrifuge equipped with a 325 mL capacity column. The separations were performed by two different procedures both utilizing a set of N-(3,5-dintrobenzoyl)-D,L-amino acids as test samples with N-dodecanoyl-L-proline-3,5-dimethylanilide as a chiral selector (Cs). The HSCCC separations were carried out with a two-phase solvent system composed of hexane/ethyl acetate/methanol/water where the chiral selector was added to the organic stationary phase. A second procedure using pH-zone-refining CCC yielded characteristic fused rectangular peaks in which the two isomers were resolved with less than 5% of overlap.

Abstract: The object is to provide a multistage liquid-solid fractional extraction apparatus in which a separation procedure of a large amount of mixture can be carried out exactly and effectively in a simple procedure by use of a partition difference in liquid chromatography. The multistage liquid-solid fractional extraction apparatus comprises multiple containers 3 capable of accommodating liquid and solid for a liquid-solid extraction, a liquid inlet part 1 and a liquid outlet part 2 equipped with in each container, a pipe 4 to carry liquid from the liquid outlet part of the forward container to the liquid inlet part of the backward container, an efflux protecting device (filter 5) for solid, which is equipped with at the above liquid outlet part, and along with these a stirring device to let solid in said container move in liquid by virtue of the density difference between solid and liquid when rotating or swinging the container 3.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for isolating nucleic acids having a separation column which has a top inlet and a bottom outlet in which a separation device is arranged, and having a collection vessel for collecting liquid emerging from the outlet. The ratio between the internal volume of the separation column above the separation device and the surface area of the separation device is at least 10 ml/cm2.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for a simultaneous multiple isolation and purification of nucleic acids from biological material based on binding nucleic acid to mineral carrier particles. The device includes a square-shaped plastic case, a shaking apparatus with sample vessels, and a shielding for the motor and shaking apparatus.

Abstract: This invention relates to micro volume spin columns used for the preparation and purification of small chemical and/or biological samples by centrifugation. The present invention relates to the use of the conventional luer lock fitting in micro volume spin columns. This invention also relates to multi-spin column systems based on joining two or more spin columns by their ends or by combining different filtration or ultra-filtration membranes with spin columns.

Abstract: The present invention features a method and apparatus with a rotatable central reservoir and radially extending support arms for packing chromatographic columns at a consistent gradient of particle impact by using centripetal forces to independently accelerate particles comprising a bed material through a filling opening at one end of the column and continuously as they move axially along the length of the column to their packed destination. The method and apparatus are particularly suitable for use in packing capillary columns having an interior diameter of about 500 microns or less.

Abstract: A chromatographic device in which a chromatographic column pivots on a compression cylinder. Prior to pivoting, one end of the column is sealed with an end cap, the column is at least partially filled with a chromatographic medium and a piston is frictionally engaged within the column. The chromatographic column is then pivoted onto the compression cylinder, and the compression device is operated to push the piston into the column with a telescoping rod. The telescoping rod is then retracted, leaving the piston in place. The chromatographic column is then removed from the compression cylinder. A spring assembly is then inserted into column above the piston, and held in place with a torque mechanism mounted on the chromatographic column. The torque mechanism includes a bolt that can be tightened to provide a variable spring pressure against the piston.

Abstract: A chromatographic device in which a chromatographic column pivots on a compression cylinder. Prior to pivoting, one end of the column is sealed with an end cap, the column is at least partially filled with a chromatographic medium and a piston is frictionally engaged within the column. The chromatographic column is then pivoted onto the compression cylinder, and the compression device is operated to push the piston into the column with a telescoping rod. The telescoping rod is then retracted, leaving the piston in place. The chromatographic column is then removed from the compression cylinder. A spring assembly is then inserted into column above the piston, and held in place with a torque mechanism mounted on the chromatographic column. The torque mechanism includes a bolt that can be tightened to provide a variable spring pressure against the piston.

Abstract: A chromatography material is described for separation of nucleic acid mixtures in which a support is converted with a silanization reagent, in which the silanization reagent has a reactive group converted with silanization reagent, in which the silanization reagent has a reactive group converted with an alkyl- or dialkylamine, or contains a reactive group that can be converted with an alkyl- or dialkylamine, which is then reacted with the alkyl- or dialkylamine.

Abstract: Separations of very hydrophilic organic compounds has now been achieved using countercurrent chromatography in which a ligand for the analytes of interest is used to enhance the partitioning of the polar species into the organic layer of an aqueous/organic solvent mixture. The compounds are separated according to their affinity for the ligand in the stationary organic phase. This method of affinity countercurrent chromatography can also be conducted in a pH-zone refining mode.

Abstract: A process and device for separating a mixture of substances by sorption of the components of the mixture on two different sorption agents with independently adjustable sorption properties. The process is characterized in that the mixture of interest is introduced into a gap between two surfaces of sorption agents. A gap medium in which the components of the mixture are soluble and/or dispersible and/or in which they can be evaporated is located between the facing surfaces of the sorption agents (1,2). Of the three different phases consisting of surfaces and gap medium at least two move in different directions at a substantially constant distance apart, and the separated components of the mixture located on the sorption means are extracted after passing through the separating section.

Abstract: A device for the separation of fluid substances, especially a capillary chromatographic separating device, is provided, which comprises a separating path in which a stationary phase is arranged and through which flows a mobile phase containing a sample to be separated into its components. The device also comprises means for transporting the mobile phase, and a detection device for detecting the separated components. The separating path is constructed in the form of an annular channel into which lead the inflow and outflow channels for the mobile phase and the fluid substance to be separated. In a very especially preferred variant of the invention the means for transporting the mobile phase are arranged inside the annular channel. In the described method of separating fluid substances the mobile phase together with the sample to be separated is circulated cyclically in a separating path constructed in the form of an annular channel.

Abstract: Disclosed is a centrifuge tube containing a porous selection means for selectively separating and recovering biological substances from gels, broths, or solutions containing the same, and thus concentrating them, the tube comprising separate upper and lower containers and means for joining the two containers to form a unitary device, the bottom of the upper container comprising a porous selection means, preferably a membrane containing a particulate substance which will selectively bind the biological substances while allowing unbound substances to pass through from the upper to lower container while being centrifuged.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the partial or complete continuous separation of isotopes of gadolinium, especially high thermal neutron capture cross-section gadolinium isotopes, using continuous, steady-state, chromatography in which an ion exchange resin is the stationary phase, an aqueous solution of ions based on a mixture of gadolinium isotopes is the feed phase, and an aqueous acid eluant solution is the mobile phase. The method involves the mobile phase eluting or desorbing the gadolinium isotopic solute or ligand adsorbed on the stationary phase under conditions such that each of the various naturally occurring isotopes of gadolinium is primarily eluted in an elution volume distinct from the elution volumes of the other isotopes. In a preferred embodiment, the conditions are such that at least one of the elution volumes contains essentially only one isotope of gadolinium.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new method of pH-zone-refining countercurrent chromatography that can be operated in a manner analogous to displacement chromatography. The method uses a retainer base (acid) in the stationary phase to retain analytes in the column and a displacer acid (base) to elute the analytes in the decreasing (or increasing) order of pK.sub.a and hydrophobicity. The elution produces a train of highly concentrated rectangular solute peaks with minimum overlap. To use pH-zone refining CCC in a displacement mode, the mobile and stationary phases are switched. Thus, the original eluent becomes a retainer to retain analytes in the stationary phase, and the original retainer acid becomes a displacer to displace the analytes from the stationary phase to the mobile phase at the back of the solute bands.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process of and apparatus for the continuous and selective separation of boron-10 (B.sup.10) isotope having high neutron capture cross-section from boron-11 (B.sup.10) isotope from a mixture of boron isotopes in a boric acid solution by using a weak base ion exchange resin and water eluant in a continuous annular chromatograph.

Abstract: A process for the partial or complete simultaneous separation of isotopes of erbium, especially high thermal neutron capture cross-section erbium isotopes, using continuous, steady-state, chromatography in which an ion exchange resin is the stationary phase, an aqueous solution of ions based on a mixture of erbium isotopes is the feed phase, and an aqueous acid eluant solution is the mobile phase. The process involves the mobile phase eluting or desorbing the erbium isotopic solute adsorbed on the stationary phase under conditions such that each of the various naturally occurring isotopes of erbium is primarily eluted in an elution volume distinct from the elution volumes of the other isotopes. In a preferred embodiment, the conditions are such that at least one of the elution volumes contains essentially only one isotope of erbium. The process is preferably conducted in a continuous, steady-state manner, and in particular is preferably conducted in a continuous annular chromatograph (CAC).

Abstract: A cross-axis synchronous flow-through coil planet centrifuge is disclosed which provides changeability in the position of the coils relative to the axis of rotation of the centrifuge. The advantage of such a feature is to allow adjustment of the centrifugal force operating on the coils to accommodate different types of separations. The coils are arranged in columns which are mounted to column holders that in turn can be engaged to the rotary frame of the centrifuge in positions in which the column holders intersect and do not intersect the rotary frame axis.

Abstract: A method for concentrating a solute from a mixture by countercurrent chromatography, by introducing a stationary phase into a countercurrent chromatographic centrifuge, introducing a sample of a mixture containing a solute into the centrifuge, introducing a sufficient quantity of an elution peak sharpening agent into the centrifuge, introducing a mobile phase into the centrifuge, and performing countercurrent chromatographic centrifugation. The eluting fractions containing the concentrated solute are identified and collected.

Abstract: It has now been discovered that acidic or basic compounds may be purified using a new countercurrent chromatography technique. This technique utilizes two immiscible solvent phases, one being acidic and one being basic. The solutes partition between the phases and elute in contiguous, well-resolved, rectangularly shaped peaks in order of their partition coefficients. The fractions within any single peak have a substantially constant concentration. In addition to differing partition coefficients, the peaks also differ in pH, successively increasing in the case of a basic mobile phase and successively decreasing in the case of an acidic mobile phase. For this reason, the technique may be referred to as "pH-zone-refining countercurrent chromatography."The method of this invention provides certain advantages over previously known countercurrent chromatography techniques. First, the method permits one to load a sample as a suspension into the separation column.

Abstract: A rotating processor is disclosed. The apparatus includes a hollow enclosed rotor, a rotor drive, internal space to hold particulate porous reaction or separations media which may be porous, lines connecting the center and periphera of the internal space with the exterior through fluid line seals, valving to control fluid flow, gradient makers, and a microprocessor to control and monitor the entire system. Optionally the rotor may be spun with the axis vertical or horizontal, and may be used as a conventional column at rest. The rotating processor permits any synthetic or separative process utilizing particulate or solid phase supports or separations involving phases of different density to be accomplished under conditions which facilitate precise control of fluid flow and minimization of both micro- and macro-anomalous flow. A computer-controlled flat multiport valve system is also described to facilitate programmed scheduling of reagents through the rotor.

Abstract: A rotating processor is disclosed. The apparatus includes a hollow enclosed rotor, a rotor drive, internal space to hold particulate porous reaction or separations media which may be porous, lines connecting the center and periphera of the internal space with the exterior through fluid line seals, valving to control fluid flow, gradient makers, and a microprocessor to control and monitor the entire system. Optionally the rotor may be spun with the axis vertical or horizontal, and may be used as a conventional column at rest. The rotating processor permits any synthetic or separative process utilizing particulate or solid phase supports, or separations involving phases of different density to be accomplished under conditions which facilitate precise control of fluid flow and minimization of both micro- and macro-anomalous flow. A computer-controlled flat multiport valve system is also described to facilitate programmed scheduling of reagents through the rotor.

Abstract: The present invention is related to an apparatus for packing an analytical chromatography column having a first opening and a second opening with packing particles. The apparatus comprises means for providing solvent at a density essentially equal to the density of the packing particles. The providing means is in fluidic communication with the first opening of the column. The apparatus also comprises a first reservoir for containing the packing particles. The reservoir is in fluidic communication with the providing means such that solvent can mix with the particles in the first reservoir to form a slurry where the particles are suspended in the solvent and agglomeration of the packing particles is essentially absent when the slurry is introduced into the analytical chromatography column.

Abstract: A multi-column countercurrent chromatograph utilizes a single reel with a plurality of columns, typically preparative, semi-preparative and analytical types helically wound around a common central axis in various combinations. The multi-coil column may consist of an inner preparative coil in the range of 215 ml; a 75 ml semi-preparative intermediate coil and 15 ml mini analytical coil for rotation around a central axis. The mini coil is particularly useful for preliminary tests of solvent systems or for separations on a few milligrams of sample. The intermediate coil is useful for preparative separations of larger samples in less than an hour. By connecting the intermediate and larger coils in a series arrangement the resolution obtained will be double that achieved with the intermediate coil alone. Separations can be repeatedly injected without loss of the stationary phase. Individual coils may be used without the need for rebalancing the instrument.

Abstract: A method of separating rare earth elements and compounds from mixtures containing the same which comprises separating the rare earth elements and compounds by means of rotational high speed countercurrent chromatography.

Abstract: A rotating processor is disclosed. The apparatus includes a hollow enclosed rotor, a rotor drive, internal space to hold particulate porous reaction or separations media which may be porous, lines connecting the center and periphera of the internal space with the exterior through fluid line seals, valving to control fluid flow, gradient makers, and a microprocessor to control and monitor the entire system. Optionally the rotor may be spun with the axis vertical or horizontal, and may be used as a conventional column at rest. The rotating processor permits any synthetic or separative process utilizing particulate or solid phase supports, or separations involving phases of different density to be accomplished under conditions which facilitate precise control of fluid flow and minimization of both micro- and macro-anomalous flow. A computer-controlled flat multiport valve system is also described to facilitate programmed scheduling of reagents through the rotor.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved continuous countercurrent chromatography apparatus. The invention further relates to an improved method of countercurrent chromatography comprises filling a separation column with a first solvent, introducing into the column a sample solute to be separated, continuously pumping a second solvent into the column, the second solvent being substantially immiscible with the first solvent, maintaining the solvent flowing out of the column at a temperature effective to avoid clouding thereof, spectrophotometrically monitoring the temperature-maintained separating fractions flowing out of the column, and applying back-pressure to the solvent flowing into and out of the monitor.

Abstract: Chromatographic species are continuously separated by displacement chromatography using an apparatus that comprises an inlet distribution manifold, a particulate bed, and a plurality of collector receptacles. The particulate bed is moved with respect to the inlet distributor manifold and the collector receptacles.

Abstract: Chromatographic species are continuously separated by either elution or displacement HPLC using an apparatus that comprises a stationary inlet distribution manifold, a stationary chromatographic bed, and mobile collector receptacles.

Abstract: A simple, low temperature process for separating uranium isotopes and producing substantially pure uranium isotope fractions from a crude uranium isotope-containing aqueous feed stock is provided. A uranium isotope-containing solution is fed to an anion exchange resin in a continuously rotating annular chromatograph as a suitable eluant is also simultaneously fed to the rotating chromatograph. A Uranium 235, a Uranium 238 and an impurity fraction are recovered from the chromatograph. The substantially pure uranium 235 and uranium 238 fractions may be subjected to further processing, preferably precipitation with ammonium hydroxide to produce ammonium diuranate, and then calcining to form uranium oxide rich in the desired isotope.

Abstract: Fused polynuclear aromatic compounds (PNAs) are continuously removed from a recycle oil stream in a hydrocracking process. An adsorption bed removes the PNAs from the recycle oil, a desorbing reagent removes the PNAs from the bed, and a regenerating agent regenerates the bed, all steps being performed simultaneously and continuously.

Abstract: A type-XLL cross-axis synchronous flow-through coil planet centrifuge including exclusively left-handed column coils and a method of separating macromolecules utilizing the same. The exclusive use of left-handed column coils allows retention of the stationary phase when utilizing aqueous-aqueous two-phase solvent systems. The cross-axis synchronous flow-through coil planet centrifuge has been utilized to separate proteins utilizing an aqueous-aqueous polymer phase solvent system.

Abstract: A countercurrent chromatography apparatus and method where the column rotates about an axis spaced apart from, parallel to, and in the same radial plane as a radius extending from the central axis of revolution. The apparatus generates a unique force field which enables excellent separation.

Abstract: Hydrated sodium silicate particles can be expanded by heat to form thin-walled bubbles that can be broken, neutralized, washed and dried to provide hydrated silica flakes. These flakes can be mixed with non-swelling sorptive particles such as TLC grade silica and used to make chromatographic articles. One such article is a composite of a poly(tetrafluoroethylene) fibril matrix in which those particles and hydrated or fired silica flakes are enmeshed. The hydrated silica flakes can be fired to a refractory state and then incorporated into protective coatings to enhance their resistance to abrasion while also better protecting the coated substrates from corrosion.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for separating and recovering very small amounts of biologically active proteins (such as enzymes, antigens and antibodies) present in a various fluids, with a high recovery and on a large scale, in which a fluid containing a desired protein is introduced into a rotary column through orifices therein and brought into contact with a gel carrier capable of selectively adsorbing the desired protein, while the carrier is being gentle fluidized in a liquid by the rotary motion successively by wash water and eluting fluid, so that the column, after which the fluid is displaced, the carrier having the desired protein adsorbed thereon is washed and the desired protein is recovered therefrom by elution while the carrier fluidized.

Abstract: A device for the determination of amino acid sequence of a polypeptide comprises two new features offering great advantages in the cost and efficiency of operation of amino acid sequencers. The sequencer is provided with the capability for the bidirectional flow of sequencing reagents and contains a sample chamber having a bicompositional adsorbent for the polypeptide.

Abstract: A horizontal flow-through coil centrifuge provides a very long continuous partition facilitating passage through a plurality of serially connected multilayer helical tubing coils subjected to a rotary motion at a selected angular velocity about a column assembly axis and, simultaneously, a revolving motion of that axis about a stationary horizontal axis at the same angular velocity therearound. The passage of a fluid mobile phase containing solute through the very long length of tubing generates a commensurately long dwell time of the solutes in the complex gravitational/centrifugal acceleration field through a relatively large volume of a fluid stationary phase held in the moving tubing, thus enabling very sensitive chromatographic separations of constituents between the two fluid phases. Gearing and speed and temperature controls are provided in the apparatus to ensure that inflow/outflow tubing remains free of twisting and allowing use at a variety of operational speeds and fluid temperatures.

Abstract: Column chromatography beds are packed through the application of static force. A slurry of the chromatography bed material and a non-viscous liquid is filled into the column plugged at one end, and allowed to settle. The column is transferred to a centrifuge, and centrifuged for a brief period of time to achieve a predetermined packing level, at a range generally of 100-5,000 gravities. Thereafter, the plug is removed, other fixtures may be secured, and the liquid is allowed to flow out through the bed. This results in an evenly packed bed, with no channeling or preferential flow characteristics.

Abstract: Hydrated sodium silicate particles can be expanded by heat to form thin-walled bubbles that can be broken, neutralized, washed and dried to provide hydrated silica flakes. These flakes can be mixed with non-swelling sorptive particles such as TLC grade silica and used to make chromatographic articles. One such article is a composite of a poly(tetrafluoroethylene) fibril matrix in which those particles and hydrated or fired silica flakes are enmeshed. The hydrated silica flakes can be fired to a refractory state and then incorporated into protective coatings to enhance their resistance to abrasion while also better protecting the coated substrates from corrosion.