Increased size-sorting performance in gravitational SPLITT by using a pinched sample inlet design

Split-flow thin fractionation is a continuous, flow-assisted separation technique for sorting macromolecules and particulate matter on a preparative scale. On reducing the thickness of the sample inlet conduit of a gravitational split-flow thin fractionation channel, size-sorting performance is found to increase since particles that are continuously fed into the channel can be more rapidly compressed toward the upper wall of the channel. Experiments are carried out by measuring the number percentage of particles eluted at each outlet as a function of different thickness values of the sample inlet conduit. The effects that the total thickness of the gravitational split-flow thin fractionation channel and the sample feed concentration have on the size-fractionation performance are examined with the goal of determining the best pinched sample inlet, gravitational split-flow thin fractionation channel design.