Overview
The MCSGP process consists of several chromatographic columns which are switched in position opposite to the flow direction. Most of the columns are equipped with a gradient pump to adjust the modifier concentration at the column inlet. Some columns are connected directly, so that non pure product streams are internally recycled. Other columns are short circuited, so that they operate in pure batch mode. The system is split into several sections, from which every section performs a tasks analog to the tasks of a batch purification. These tasks are loading the feed, running the gradient elution, recycling of weakly adsorbing site fractions, fractionation of the purified product, recycling of strongly adsorbing site fractions, cleaning the column from strongly adsorbing impurities, cleaning in place and re-equilibration of the column to start the next purification run. All of the tasks mentioned here are carried out at the same time in one unit. Recycling of non pure site fractions is performed in countercurrent movement.
The fully continuous process consists of at least 6 columns. Semi-continuous operation with only 3 columns shows the same performance and it can even have a higher productivity.
Read more about this topic: Multicolumn Countercurrent Solvent Gradient Purification