Packed bed chromatography is usually modeled in one or two spatial dimensions, for example by the general rate model. Such models assume that fluid flow and solute molecule concentrations are homogeneously distributed over column cross sections. Moreover, concentration gradients within the beads are at most considered along the radial coordinate.These homogeneity assumptions are studied with a three-dimensional model of the involved convection, diffusion and adsorption processes. Due to the complex geometry only bed sections with up to several hundred spheres can be computed on personal computers. Simulation studies are performed for random packings that present sections of small columns with volumes on the micro-liter scale.Complex flow profiles and dominant wall effects are observed in the interstitial volume. The resulting concentration profiles in the interstitial column volume and within the porous beads can vary as strongly along the radial coordinate as along the axial coordinate of the column.

Spatial homogeneity analysis of packed bed chromatography

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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