Mathematical modeling of continuous separation process of proteins using partial recycling free-flow isoelectric focusing with feed supply and product withdrawal

An unsteady state mathematical model describing the continuous separation p rocess of a binary mixture of protein using partial recycling free-flow iso electric focusing is constructed. The model consists of a one-dimensional m ass balance equation and an electric charge balance equation for the electr ophoretic chamber and a mass balance equation for the reservoir. The model equations were solved numerically using a finite difference method with lit erature values of physical constants such as dissociation and diffusion con stants. The calculated results are in good agreement with the experimental data for the separation of protein mixture of bovine serum albumin (BSA) an d bovine hemoglobin (Hb) reported previously. Furthermore, the model can de scribe the effects of the operating factors, such as support electrolyte co ncentration and feed flow rate, on the separation process.