Micro-separation of fluid systems: A state-of-the-art review

Micro-separation technology is based on the application of micro-structured equipment units. Such units contain structured elements with micro-scale dimensions. They are necessary for the implementation of classical downstream unit operations within the overall micro-scale production process. However, the development of micro-separation units for fluid mixtures faces substantial difficulties. This article gives an overview of current research activities in the field of micro-separation technology focusing on the unit operations extraction, absorption/desorption, distillation, as well as particle or droplets sorting. In addition, some examples are given for a combined application of different micro-separation operations. Both advantages and limitations of micro-separation operations are highlighted.