Equilibrium theory for chromatography

The term equilibrium theory denotes various methods for (mostly analytical) solutions of the so-called ideal model of chromatography, which is the most simple continuous form of the material balance of a chromatographic process. It considers only convection and the (ompetitive) distribution equilibria of the components to be separated. This leads to a system of partial differential equations (PDEs), which can be solved under certain conditions. Although such solutions represent chromatographic processes in a simplified manner, they feature their main nonlinear dynamics. This makes them extremely valuable for the conceptual design, analysis, and development of novel chromatographic operating concepts.

In our group, we devised corresponding solutions in order to develop new operating modes and design methods for a variety of processes, including batch elution, simulated moving bed (SMB), and steady-state recycling (SSR) chromatography. Many of the results were obtained in close collaboration with Prof. Tuomo Sainio (Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology, Finland).

Selected publications on equilibrium theory for chromatography