Abstract: Simultaneous synthesis and purification of a fatty acid monoester biodiesel fuel from a triacylglycerol feedstock is described. In an exemplary method, the triacylglycerol feedstock is continuously contacted with a catalytic chromatographic bed comprising a first (solid phase) basic catalyst through a first port of a simulated moving bed chromatographic apparatus. A monohydric alcohol and optional second (mobile phase) basic catalyst is continuously contacted with the catalytic chromatographic bed through a second port and pumped in a first direction toward the triacylglycerol feedstock to contact the triacylglycerol in a reaction zone of the catalytic chromatographic bed where the fatty acid monoester and glycerol coproduct are formed. The fatty acid monoester is removed from the reaction zone through a product port of the simulated moving bed apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for chromatographically analyzing each of a plurality of samples in detector, comprising an autosampler to contain a plurality of samples for chromatographic analysis and a pluraltity of chromatographic systems, each system comprising one or more pumps and one or more chromatographic columns. A detector is included for detecting compounds in the samples from each of the chromatography systems along with a valve positioned between the detector and the plurality of chromatography systems, the valve permitting each sample to reach the detector in sequence. A computer control device is included which adjusts the introduction of samples from the autosampler into the plurality of chromatography systems as well as the position of the valve to sequentially separate and deliver compounds within the samples to the detector.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods for micro-scale simulated moving bed chromatography (SMB) for continuous preparation of analytic quantities of highly pure fractions of target molecules. The present apparatus and method of the invention is adapted in a preferred embodiment to separations by affinity chromatography involving three discontinuous liquid flow loops. An alternative embodiment of affinity chromatography utilizes standard SMB operating under isocratic conditions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a chromatographic separation process for fractionating betaine-containing solutions by utilizing fractions comprising parts of the separation profile as a substituent of the eluent in a novel and inventive manner. The process provides improved separation capacity and separation efficiency without affecting the yield or purity of betaine or other products. The process can especially be applied to sequential SMB separation systems.

Abstract: A valve arrangement is disclosed for providing a switchable fluid connection between a fluid delivery system for driving a mobile phase and a stationary phase adapted for separating compounds of a sample fluid comprised in the mobile phase.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a simulated moving bed process, wherein at least one adsorbent is washed after binding of target compound and wherein the outlet of wash liquid from the adsorbent is subsequently passed onto another adsorbent for binding of target compound removed by the washing. In one embodiment, the method comprises binding of at least one target compound using three or more adsorbents connected in series and elution of target compound from said three adsorbents. After the binding to an adsorbent, wash liquid is passed across the adsorbent to recover desorbed and/or unbound target compound, and the outlet of such wash liquid is directed to the adsorbent after the next in the series, to which no feed has yet been added. The target compound is recovered by eluting target compound from the washed adsorbents.

Abstract: The objectives of this invention are to provide a filler for separating optical isomers, capable of efficiently carrying out optical resolution of optical isomer mixtures, and to provide a process for separating optical isomers by a simulated moving bed chromatography utilizing the filler. This invention provides a filler made of a carrier supporting a specific amount of an optically active high molecular weight compound. Separation by the simulated moving bed chromatography using the filler is carried out under the condition that the capacity factors have specific values.

Abstract: The invention relates to a semi-continuous chromatographic method for the separation of binary and multi-component mixtures and corresponding devices.

Abstract: The present invention provides a microfluidic device and method for facilitating on-chip complex sample processing and detection. In general, the device comprises at least a separation channel of a separation system, an interface, and an array of microreservoirs disposed within the same chip. The interface is configured to orthogonally transfer separated components from the separation channel into the array of microreservoirs, enabling direct analyte detection from the chip and high-throughput analysis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and controlling nano-scale flow rate of fluid in the operating flow path of a HPLC system provide fluid flow without relying on complex calibration routines to compensate for solvent composition gradients typically used in HPLC. The apparatus and method are used to correct the flow output of a typical, analytical-scale (0.1-5 mL/min) HPLC pump to enable accurate and precise flow delivery at capillary (<0.1 mL/min) and nano-scale (<1 ?L/min) HPLC flow rates.

Abstract: A method comprising liquefying a gas to thereby obtain a liquefied gas; injecting a sample into a mobile phase containing a solvent and a supercritical fluid formed from the liquefied gas; passing this mobile phase through a column so that the mobile phase containing desired substance is divided into the solvent and the gas; and separating the desired substance from the solvent, wherein when the pressure of the gas divided from the mobile phase is higher than the pressure of the gas fed for formation of the liquefied gas from gas supply device, the gas divided from the mobile phase is liquefied. Further, there is provided a vapor liquid separator for use in the method.

Abstract: Method for preparing highly pure L-iditol, consisting in subjecting a mixture of L-iditol and of L-sorbose to a chromatographic treatment, in such a way as to obtain at least two fractions, one of which is highly enriched in L-iditol and the other of which is highly enriched in L-sorbose.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and controlling nano-scale flow rate of fluid in the operating flow path of a HPLC system provide fluid flow without relying on complex calibration routines to compensate for solvent compositions gradients typically used in HPLC. The apparatus and method are used to correct the flow output of a typical, analytical-scale (0.1-5 mL/min) HPLC pump to enable accurate anti precise flow delivery at capillary (<0.1 mL/min) and nano-scale (<?L/min) HPLC flow rates.

Abstract: A solid-phase extraction device utilizing a section of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) tubing as the stationary phase is disclosed. The microscopic pores of ePTFE tubing are impregnated with a binding agent having an affinity for a target constituent within a matrix. The matrix is prepared and loaded onto the stationary phase of the system. The target constituent is retained by the stationary phase. The constituent is stripped from the stationary phase with a stripping solution, and collected for further analysis or use.

Abstract: An improved process for separating and isolating individual polar protic monomer(s) and/or oligomer(s) on the basis of degree of polymerization. A liquid sample containing polar protic monomer(s) and/or oligomer(s) is introduced into a liquid chromatography (LC) column packed with a polar bonded stationary chromatographic phase. The individual polar protic monomer(s) and/or oligomer(s) are separated via a binary mobile phase elution. One or more individual fractions containing the monomer(s) and/or oligomer(s) are eluted. The polar protic monomer(s) and/or oligomer(s) may be proanthocyanidins, hydrolyzable tannins, oligosaccharides, oligonucleotides, peptides, acrylamides, polysorbates, polyketides, poloxarners, polyethylene glycols, polyoxyethylene alcohols or polyvinyl alcohols. The binary mobile phase comprises an A phase consisting essentially of a polar aprotic solvent and a B phase consisting essentially of a polar protic solvent. A process for separating and isolating xanthine(s) (e.g.

Abstract: A displacement chromatography process and displacer compounds used in the process and having the general formula (I): wherein: each group R1, R2, R3, R?1, R?2, and R?3, independently may be selected from alkyl, aryl, and aralkyl, and in which a ring containing one or more quaternary nitrogen may be formed by any one or more of R1 and R2, R1 and R?1, R1 and R4, R4 and R?4, or R4 and R5; each R4, R?4, R5 and R?5 independently may be selected from alkyl, aryl, aralkyl and —(CH2)a—(CHY)b—(CH2)c—N+R1R2R3 An?, wherein R1, R2 and R3 are as defined above; each Y independently may be selected from —H, —OH, —OR6, halo, alkyl, aryl and aralkyl, wherein —R6 may be alkyl or —(CH2)a—(CHOH)b—(CH2)c—N+R1R2R3 An?, wherein R1, R2 and R3 are as defined above; each q and z independently may be any whole number from 0 to about 6, with the proviso that q+z is equal to or less than about 6; each a, b, and c independently may be any whole number from 0 to 2, with the proviso that the sum a+b+c in any fragment is at least 1; a

Abstract: Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography involving a series of columns serially connected in a circuit is performed in a modified protocol by dividing the columns into two groups isolated from flow communication with each other and using one of the two groups solely for extraction of the more strongly retained component from the solid phase while the other group is operated in the conventional SMB manner. The sites of introduction and withdrawal and the site of division between the two groups of columns are all rotated around the circuit as in conventional SMB chromatography, but the process is capable of separating component mixtures with non-linear isotherms and of extracting solutes that are very strongly retained on the solid phase.

Abstract: The invention relates to a chromatographic process for substance separation in the context of the preparation of chemicals such as, for example, chiral pharmaceuticals, isomers or biomolecules on the small-scale and production scale, based on Simulated Moving Bed (SMB=countercurrent chromatography) technology.

Abstract: Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography involving a series of columns serially connected in a circuit is performed in a modified protocol by dividing the columns into two groups isolated from flow communication with each other and using one of the two groups solely for extraction of the more strongly retained component from the solid phase while the other group is operated in the conventional SMB manner. The sites of introduction and withdrawal and the site of division between the two groups of columns are all rotated around the circuit as in conventional SMB chromatography, but the process is capable of separating component mixtures with non-linear isotherms and of extracting solutes that are very strongly retained on the solid phase.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for chromatographically analyzing each of a plurality of samples in detector, comprising an autosampler to contain a plurality of samples for chromatographic analysis and a plurality of chromatographic systems, each system comprising one or more pumps and one or more chromatography columns. A detector is included for detecting compounds in the samples from each of the chromatography systems along with a valve positioned between the detector and the plurality of chromatography systems, the valve permitting each sample to reach the detector in sequence. A computer control device is included which adjusts the introduction of samples from the autosampler into the plurality of chromatography systems as well as the position of the valve to sequentially separate and deliver compounds within the samples to the detector.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to solid phase extraction (“SPE”) apparatuses that include a sintered polycrystalline diamond (“PCD”) stationary phase and methods of performing SPE using a sintered PCD stationary phase. In one embodiment, an SPE cartridge includes a housing that comprises a proximal first end including a housing inlet, a distal second end including a housing outlet, and an interior space extending between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. An SPE stationary phase may be positioned within the interior space and includes an inlet and an outlet. The SPE stationary phase comprises a mass of sintered diamond grains including a plurality of passageways extending therethrough between the inlet and the outlet. In other embodiments, an SPE apparatus may employ a sintered PCD stationary phase in the form of a disk. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an SPE stationary phase of an SPE apparatus may comprise un-sintered diamond particles.

Abstract: A simulated moving bed (SMB) separation device comprising a column, beds Ai of adsorbent separated by plates Pi with a single distribution and extraction network for fluids, in particular feed F, desorbant D, raffinate R and extract B, and a plurality of two-way valves for distribution of said fluids, said valves being limited in number compared with the prior art. The column is divided into a plurality of sectors Sk with 2 or 3 superimposed plates, each sector Sk comprising an external bypass line Lk connected to each plate Pi of Sk via a connector comprising a plate valve Vi. Each line Lk comprises a controlled means for limiting its internal flow, and is connected to each of the fluid networks F, D, R, E via a single line comprising a single controlled two-way isolation valve to supply for sequential supply or withdrawal of the corresponding fluid F, D, R or E towards or from the sector Sk under consideration.

Abstract: The invention concerns a simulated moving bed (SMB) separation device and process comprising a column, beds Ai of adsorbent separated by plates Pi with a single distribution and extraction network for fluids, in particular feed F, desorbant D, raffinate R and extract E, and a plurality of two-way valves for distribution of said fluids, said valves being limited in number and in particular with dimensions that are smaller than in the prior art. According to the invention, the column is divided into a plurality of sectors Sk with 2 superimposed plates, each sector Sk comprising an external principal bypass line Lk connected to each plate P1 of Sk via a large diameter plate valve V1 and an external secondary bypass line Mk comprising a small diameter valve VMk connected to the adjacent sector Sk?1.

Abstract: The invention concerns a simulated moving bed adsorption separation device comprising a limited number of valves. According to the invention, the device comprises a column with a plurality of sectors Sk with 2 superimposed plates Pi with a single distribution network, each sector Sk comprising an external principal bypass line Lk connected to each plate Pi of Sk via a plate valve Vi. Each line Lk comprises a flow limitation means and is connected to each of the fluid networks via a single valve. Further, the connectors of lines Lk onto the column are offset by at most 20° inside Sk to limit the volume of lines Lk, and are offset by a mean angle in the range 70° to 110° between two neighbouring sectors Sk and Sk+1 so as not to weaken the column mechanically. The plates preferably comprise panels DMEi,j with parallel segments the direction of which varies from plate to plate or per group of 2 plates.

Abstract: A chromatographic method including chromatographically separating sample ionic species in an eluent stream, detecting the separated sample ionic species, catalytically combining hydrogen and oxygen gases or catalytically decomposing hydrogen peroxide in a catalytic gas elimination chamber, and recycling the effluent stream from the chamber to the chromatography separation column. The residence time between the detector and the chamber is at least about one minute. Also, flowing the recycle sequentially through two detector effluent flow channels of an electrolytic membrane suppressor. Also, applying heat or UV energy between the detector and the chamber. Also, detecting bubbles after the chamber. Also, a Platinum group metal catalyst and ion exchange medium in the chamber. Apparatus for performing the methods.

Abstract: The invention relates to a semi-continuous chromatographic method for the separation of binary and multi-component mixtures and corresponding devices.

Abstract: A microfluidic device, a device including the microfluidic device and methods of operation are described.

Abstract: The invention concerns a simulated moving bed adsorption separation device comprising a limited number of large diameter valves. According to the invention, the device comprises a column with a plurality of sectors Sk with 2 superimposed plates Pi with a single distribution network, each sector Sk comprising an external principal bypass line Lk connected to each plate Pi of Sk via a large diameter plate valve Vi and an external secondary bypass line Mk comprising a small diameter valve VMk connected to the adjacent sector Sk?1. Each line Lk comprises a flow rate limitation means and is connected to each fluid network via a single large diameter valve. Further, the connectors of lines Lk onto the column are offset by at most 20° inside Sk to limit the volume of lines Lk, and are offset by a mean angle in the range 70° to 110° between two neighbouring sectors Sk and Sk+1 so as not to weaken the column mechanically.

Abstract: The present invention relates to automated chromatography systems and software for controlling such automated systems for optimising the purification of a protein from a sample. The software is adapted to monitor the signal from a detector in the system, determine two signal parameters and to control the components of the system depending on the actual values of the two signal parameters.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to reduce the dead volume in a flow path with trap functions. A flow path switching valve 1 is provided, which includes a rotor, i.e., rotor 3, and a housing top 9 having four ports 7a-7d connected to external flow paths, wherein two ports used for a mobile phase for analyzing are an inlet port 7a and an outlet port 7b, and the other two ports used for a mobile phase for condensing are an inlet port 7c and an outlet port 7d. In the rotor 3, two circular arc-shaped rotor trenches 11a, 11b for communicating two ports are formed at positions corresponding to the ports 7a-7d. The rotor trench 11b is filled with an adsorbent.

Abstract: A liquid chromatograph having a flow passage switching mechanism for switching among a normal analysis flow passage formed by connecting a mobile-phase-sending-unit, a second mixer having a large capacity, a sample injection portion, an analysis column and a detector in this order, a concentration flow passage formed by connecting a concentration liquid sending unit for sending a liquid for transferring a sample to be concentrated, the second mixer, the sample injection portion and a trapping column in this order, and a concentration analysis flow passage formed by connecting the mobile-phase-sending-unit, a first mixer having a smaller capacity than the second mixer, the trapping column, the analysis column and the detector in this order so that any one of the three flow passages is selectively formed, The mobile-phase-sending-unit is set so that the flow rate of a mobile phase becomes smaller when the concentration analysis flow passage is selected than when the normal analysis flow passage is selected.

Abstract: In liquid-feeding sections for feeding two types of mobile phases A, B, respectively, actual flow rate measuring sections capable of detecting back-flows are provided in downstream of liquid-feeding pumps, respectively. Control devices control driving of the liquid feeding pumps, respectively, so that measured flow rates by the actual flow rate measuring sections correspond to set flow rates on the liquid-feeding flow paths, respectively. In a case where the set flow rate is zero, when either of the actual flow rate measuring sections detects the back-flow, the corresponding liquid-feeding pump is driven so as to prevent the back-flow.

Abstract: A unique valve assembly for simulated bed moving chromatography employs a combination of pressure compatible sealable materials that permit minimal frictional interaction between moving parts, ensures alignment of parts, and provides a method for conducting SMB countercurrent chromatography on a small scale, in which purity and separation efficiency are enhanced. Machine designs are disclosed which embody the SMB concepts. Finally, a quick disconnect connector and adaptor is provided for mounting chromatographic columns in an SMB device. Demonstration of this system in a fructose-glucose isomer separation with purity-recovery trade-off for this device is also presented.

Abstract: In a liquid chromatography, an electrolytic solution starts to be supplied from an injector toward a specimen in a first separating column to transfer components of the specimen from the first separating column toward one of first and second trap columns after a time period more than zero elapses from a time at which another eluting liquid starts to flow through the other one of the first and second trap columns toward a second separating column.

Abstract: Ion transport apparatus (e.g. an electrolytic eluent generator or a suppressor for ion chromatography) in which ions in a first chamber are transported to a liquid in second chamber through a wall comprising an ion exchange bead sealed in a bead seat. The wall is capable of transport ions but of substantially blocking bulk liquid flow.

Abstract: A suppressed ion chromatographic apparatus using a regenerant recycle loop, comprising (a) an ion separation device, (b) a membrane suppressor, (c) a detector, (d) a container for regenerant solution, (e) a first conduit between the ion separation device and the suppressor, (f) a second conduit between the regenerant solution container and the suppressor, (g) a third conduit between the suppressor and the regenerant solution container, and (h) a regenerant solution recycle loop out of fluid communication with the detector outlet.

Abstract: A system and process for chromatography that uses a chromatography column to separate components from a sample received into the column in a mobile phase flowstream and places a second chromatography column between a detector and a collection system that compensates the timing of fraction collection for a delay caused by processing the collection signals generated by the detector. The device and process of the preferred and alternative embodiments add a delay into the flowstream of a chromatographic system, such as LC, HPLC, and SFC. Sample fractions are collected from sample component concentration peaks based upon the chromatographic elution of the sample components.

Abstract: A chromatographic separator characterized in that two pumps are employed for controlling chromatographic separation that combines a first process for supplying at least one of feed solution and eluent into a circulation system and extracting the same quantity as that of liquid supplied into the circulation system from one position of a packed column where some component is enriched in the circulation system, and a second process for circulating liquid in the system without supplying the feed solution and eluent and extracting the separated component at all. Easy-to-control chromatographic separator, in which a total number of pumps to be used is decreased and high separation performance is attained through a simple structure, can thereby be provided.

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: The invention relates to a process for the chromatographic separation of components (19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29) of a multiple-component fluid mixture (2a) by means of the Simulated Moving Bed process, in which the multiple-component fluid mixture (2a) and at least one solvent (3a) are passed into a plurality of at least one chamber (10a-10c; 11a-11c; 12a-12c; 13a-13c) or chamber sections containing a solid, at a first and second input (9b, 9d; 9f, 9h), and an extract flow (6a), which contains at least one first component (19, 26, 29) separated from the multiple-component fluid mixture (2a), as well as a raffinate flow (7a), which contains at least one second component (20, 25, 28) separated from the multiple-component fluid mixture (2a) are drawn off from the chambers (10a-10c; 11a-11 c; 12a-12c; 13a-13c) or chamber sections at a first and second outlet (9a, 9c; 9e, 9g), whereby the chambers (10a-10c; 11a-11c; 12a-12c; 13a-13c) or chamber sections forming a closed circuit (8a, 8b; 18) are connected together in s

Abstract: A simulated moving bed (SMB) separation device comprises at least one column, beds of adsorbent arranged in this column, trays Pi with a chamber Ci for distribution and extraction of fluids, a multi-way rotary valve for the distribution of the fluids feeding or leaving said trays, and junction lines Li between this valve and said trays. The SMB device also comprises a plurality of bypass lines Li,i+1 between adjacent lines, these bypasses being outside the multi-way rotary valve and situated in proximity to this valve, for the circulation of rinsing liquids with a small or zero concentration gradient. The invention makes it possible to use all types of distribution and extraction trays and all types of adsorbent loading, while preserving a high level of product purity. Application of the separation devices is in particular to the separation of paraxylene or metaxylene from a C8 aromatic charge.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and controlling nano-scale flow rate of fluid in the operating flow path of a HPLC system provide fluid flow without relying on complex calibration routines to compensate for solvent compositions gradients typically used in HPLC. The apparatus and method are used to correct the flow output of a typical, analytical-scale (0.1-5 mL/min) HPLC pump to enable accurate anti precise flow delivery at capillary (<0.1 mL/min) and nano-scale (<?L/min) HPLC flow rates.

Abstract: The invention concerns a simulated moving bed adsorption separation device comprising a limited number of valves. According to the invention, the device comprises a column with a plurality of sectors Sk with 2 superimposed plates Pi with a single distribution network, each sector Sk comprising an external principal bypass line Lk connected to each plate Pi of Sk via a plate valve Vi. Each line Lk comprises a flow limitation means and is connected to each of the fluid networks via a single valve. Further, the connectors of lines Lk onto the column are offset by at most 20° inside Sk to limit the volume of lines Lk, and are offset by a mean angle in the range 70° to 110° between two neighbouring sectors Sk and Sk+1 so as not to weaken the column mechanically. The plates preferably comprise panels DMEi,j with parallel segments the direction of which varies from plate to plate or per group of 2 plates.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the continuous extraction of lactic acid from an aqueous suspension containing solids. According to said method, the aqueous suspension containing solids is brought into contact, in a counter-current, with an organic solvent that is partially miscible with water, in a column provided with filling agents which have a surface consisting of hydrophobic material, in such a way as to form an aqueous phase and an organic phase, such that the organic phase is guided as a dispersed phase in a section of the column comprising filling agents.

Abstract: Methods for purifying pteroic acid, analogs of pteroic acid, and derivatives of pteroic acid are described. Methods for synthesizing and purifying conjugates of vitamins, including FITC conjugates of folic acid, folic acid analogs, and derivatives of folic acid and folic acid analogs are also described. Purified forms of pteroic acid, derivatives and analogs of pteroic acid, and conjugates thereof are also described.

Abstract: This invention concerns the preparation and use of novel polymeric chromatographic media and preferably mixed mode polymeric chromatographic media. In accordance with the present invention, polymeric media is prepared using polymeric particles derivatized with polyethyleneimine, and preferably such polyethyleneimine derivatized polymeric particles further functionalized with appropriate reactants. The polymeric chromatographic media is especially useful for bioseparations.

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: The present invention is directed to a device for positioning a component thereof along x- and y-axes of the device. The device includes first and second motors, a carriage containing the component to be positioned, a lead screw to position the carriage along a first axis of the device, and a keyed shaft to position component to be positioned along a second axis of the device. The first motor drives the lead screw and the second motor drives the flatted shaft. In some embodiments described herein, the flatted shaft turns a first pulley, which is connected to a second pulley by a belt. The component to be positioned is attached to the belt and moves along a second axis of the device as the belt moves.

Abstract: Process for the work-up of a mixture comprising ionic liquids and a further substance, wherein the substance present is separated off by means of adsorptive separation processes.

Abstract: The invention relates to an equipment for fractionating a solution by a sequential SMB process, which equipment comprises a feed column and one or several other columns, which include a chromatographic separation resin bed. The equipment of the invention is characterized in that the feed column consists of or comprises a compartment where the resin bed is shallower than that of one or more of the other columns of the equipment. The invention also relates to a method for fractionating a solution into two or more fractions with the equipment of the invention.