Sedimentation Field-flow Fractionation in Thin Channels and Rotating Coiled Columns: From Analytical to Preparative Scale Separations

Theoretical background, instrumentation, and applications of conventional sedimentation field-flow fractionation in thin channels (SdFFF) and non-conventional sedimentation coiled-tube field-flow fractionation (CTFFF) in rotating columns are summarized and compared. Applications are classified into three main groups: environmental studies, material science, and biological studies. SdFFF is a versatile separation and sizing method applicable to complex particulate matter such as environmental samples, engineered particles, cells, etc. However, the mass of injected particles does not usually exceed 10-20 mu g to avoid overloading. CTFFF enables the mass of the particulate sample to be increased up to grams. Despite its low resolution as compared to SdFFF, CTFFF has important niche applications. It opens a new door into the isolation of nano- and submicron particles from bulk samples of different origin and nature. In addition, CTFFF is a very promising instrument for the separation and purification of nano- and microparticles at preparative and even industrial scale.

Automated summary

Theoretical background, instrumentation, and applications of conventional SdFFF and non-conventional CTFFF in rotating columns are summarized and compared. SdFFF is a versatile method for separating complex particulate matter, while CTFFF allows for higher mass samples but with lower resolution. The latter has niche applications for isolating nano- and submicron particles and may be promising for industrial scale separation and purification.