Field-flow fractionation steric elution mode

Fig. 26. Schematic design of field flow fractionation (FFF) analysis. A sample is transported along the flow channels by a carrier stream after injection and focusing into the injector zone. Depending on the type and strength of the perpendicular field, a separation of molecules or particles takes place the field drives the sample components towards the so-called accumulation wall. Diffusive forces counteract this field resulting in discrete layers of analyte components while the parabolic flow profile in the flow channels elutes the various analyte components according to their mean distance from the accumulation wall. This is called normal mode . Particles larger than approximately 1 pm elute in inverse order hydrodynamic lift forces induce steric effects the larger particles cannot get sufficiently close to the accumulation wall and, therefore, elute quicker than smaller ones this is called steric mode . In asymmetrical-flow FFF, the accumulation wall is a mechanically supported frit or filter which lets the solvent pass the carrier stream separates asymmetrically into the eluting flow and the permeate flow which creates the (asymmetrical) flow field...

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