UNDERSTANDING FLUX PATTERNS IN MEMBRANE PROCESSING OF PROTEIN SOLUTIONS AND SUSPENSIONS

Membrane microfiltration is one of the most effective ways of separati ng proteins from materials of larger size, such as microbial cells and cell debris. Ultrafiltration is the most effective means of concentra ting protein solutions. This review describes the scope and operating patterns of these processes. A major goal for membrane technologists i s the development of predictive descriptions of membrane processes, ba sed on a rigorous understanding of the underlying physico-chemical phe nomena. The emphasis is placed on quantitative analysis of the interfa cial aspects and microhydrodynamics of membrane processes. From existi ng knowledge, it is already possible to define a number of guidelines for successful filtration process operation.