Chromatography modelling to describe protein adsorption at bead level

Chromatographic modelling can be used to describe and further understand the behaviour of biological species during their chromatography separation on adsorption resins. Current modelling approaches assume uniform rate parameters throughout the column. Software and hardware advances now allow us to consider what can be learnt from modelling at bead level, enabling simulation of heterogeneity in bead and packed bed structure due to design or due to changes during operation. In this paper, a model has been developed to simulate at bead level protein loading in 1.5 μl microfluidic columns. This model takes into account the heterogeneity in bead sizes and the spatial variations of the characteristics of a packed bed, such as bed void fraction and dispersion, thus offering a detailed description of the flow field and mass transfer phenomena. Simulations were shown to be in good agreement with published experimental data.

► Bead level simulation within a packed bed allows visualisation of protein sorption.
► The impact of column packing heterogeneity is captured by the approach.
► Simulations are shown to be in good agreement with published experimental data.
► The approach enhances the fundamental understanding of separations for biomolecules.