Ultrafiltration FAQ

Vivaflow® crossflow devices offer a fast, cost-effective way to concentrate 0.1–5 L samples without large-scale systems. With PES or Hydrosart® membranes and single-use or reusable options, they can achieve up to 50× concentration—1 L in ~30 min or 5 L in <75 min—with near-total recovery after a single buffer rinse.

To reduce protein degradation, optimize buffer composition and minimize shear stress—e.g., use lower centrifuge speeds for linear proteins and devices with membrane areas suited to your starting volume. Vivaflow® crossflow devices minimize shear compared to centrifugal or stirred cell systems, and diafiltration tools like the Vivaflow® reservoir help maintain optimal buffer conditions during concentration.

For virus concentration, use a MWCO ~⅓ of the target’s molecular weight (or match pore size to diameter). For Lentivirus (~90 nm), a 300 kDa Hydrosart® membrane offers the best balance of speed and recovery, with 100 kDa PES as a slower alternative. Always validate device, membrane, and MWCO for your specific virus.

To maximize protein concentration and recovery, match your membrane, MWCO, and device to your protein type. Consider sample properties, membrane material (PES, RC, CTA, HY), and choose a MWCO ~⅓ of target size. Optimize device design, pre-treat to reduce non-specific binding, and use dead-stop pockets or pre-filled filtrate tubes for maximum sample retrieval.