Pellicular expanded bed matrix suitable for high flow rates

A new type of expanded bed matrix with a heavy core of stainless steel covered with an agarose layer was prepared. Two bead size fractions, the smaller one (32–75 μm ∅) having a single particle core and the larger (75–180 μm ∅) with an agglomerate of stainless steel particles constituting the core, were chosen for further characterisation. The dispersion behaviour was determined both in packed bed and expanded bed modes by the retention time distribution method (RTD) and compared with the Streamline matrix (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech). The comparison turned out in favour of the new matrix. Flow rates as high as 3000 cm/h were used with the larger fraction, giving stable expanded beds with good mass transfer properties. The matrices were mechanically stable without any tendency to crack or peal, even after prolonged use.