Optimal dimensions of capillary membranes for plasma separation

The work presented in this article examines the relationship between the efficacy of the design (membrane consumption) and the design parameters for plasma separation modules. A computer simulation program for the design of hollow fiber modules was developed. It is based on a formula for filtrate flux prediction by Jaffrin. The limiting conditions set by red and white blood cell lysis are also taken into account. The results show that membrane area consumption is strictly related to the internal hollow fiber diameter. Low-efficiency devices (low infiltrate flux) can be designed nearly optimally, using 330-micron fibers. On the other hand, for high-efficiency devices, our model predicts lowest membrane consumption and, therefore, lowest costs using 220-micron fiber diameter. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that shear rates in commercially available plasma filters are too low.