High Resolution Separation and Fractionation of Nanoparticles

The CF2000 Centrifugal Field Flow Fractionation (CF3) system from Postnova Analytics sets a new standard for high resolution separation and fractionation of nanoparticles.

Based on the CF3 principle, the Postnova CF2000 employs a centrifugal field as the driving force for separations. Particles affected by this field are separated by dynamic diffusion on the basis of both particle size and density. This unique feature of the CF2000 allows the separation of different particulate materials having the same particle size. Separations on the CF2000 can be further optimised by using different eluents and temperature programs. As a consequence, the CF2000 system is an ideal tool for the separation of complex particulate samples in areas including agriculture, cosmetics, the environment, food and nanomaterials.

Drawing upon the proven know-how and technological developments from three decades of leadership in Field Flow Fractionation, the Postnova CF2000 system offers more flexibility, higher robustness and better performance than traditional particle sizing systems. The CF2000 enables high resolution particle separation and sizing at the same time and consequently improves and extends analysis of nanoparticles.

In contrast to traditional particle sizing techniques which work in the batch mode, the CF3 technique physically separates each particle fraction prior to sizing. This avoids numerous disadvantages of these batch techniques such as, low size resolution, discrimination and under estimation of smaller compared to larger particles. Using Postnova CF3 technology no special sample preparation is necessary as they can be injected directly without filtration, allowing the characterisation of even complex particulate materials without alteration and damage.
In addition to separating nanoparticles, the wide separating range of the CF2000 enables separation of smaller species such as proteins and polymers in a single run at high resolution.

To enable users to fully realise the wide applications potential of the CF3 technique, the Postnova CF2000 system is available with various add-on modules and special FFF detectors including Refractive Index (RI), Multi-Angle Light Scattering (MALS) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). All Postnova FFF modules and FFF detectors have been especially designed and optimised for FFF.