Thesis

Mass transfer in haemoperfusion columns and other sorbent-based devices for blood detoxification

Downloadable Content

Download PDF
Creator
Rights statement
Awarding institution
  • University of Strathclyde
Date of award
  • 1978
Thesis identifier
  • T3378
Qualification Level
Qualification Name
Department, School or Faculty
Abstract
  • Haemoperfusion columns and other devices containing sorbents, such as activated carbon and polymeric resins, have been developed over the last decade for removing toxic substances from the blood. The design of these perfusion devices has been largely empirical. This thesis investigates the controlling mass transfer processes in perfusion devices (in particular on haemoperfusion columns), thereby facilitating the rational design and evaluation of such devices. A lumped parameter model of a packed bed, haemoperfusion column was developed, based on a mixing cell description of the column hydrodynamics. It incorporates intraparticle diffusion (described by a quadratic driving force equation), a nonlinear sorption isotherm and a finite external diffusion resistance. The model was validated using in vitro data from two types of perfusion column containing activated carbon and simulations based on parameter values estimated in independent stirred batch experiments. Two sorbates (sodium salicylate and sodium phenobarbitone) and a variety of flow rates and inlet concentrations were used in the validation experiments. The model was simulated using the CSMP package. Simulations of the validated model were used to investigate the contribution of each of the basic parameters to the performance of a perfusion column. These simulations were complemented by in vitro data. The fundamental mass transfer process in a haemoperfusion column is dialytic. Hence the concept of the equivalent haemodialyser (i.e. the haemodialyser with the same number of mass transfer units as the particular haemoperfusion column) is introduced for the interpretation of haemoperfusion column performance. Mass transfer in other blood detoxification devices which incorporate sorbents (e.g. haemodialysers with dialysate regeneration or sorbent augmented dialysate) were investigated briefly. In general, the sorbent does not radically alter the performance of the basic device; rather it complements this performance by simplifying the mode of operation of the device.
Advisor / supervisor
  • Gaylor, John
Resource Type
DOI
EThOS ID
  • uk.bl.ethos.469752

Relations

Items

Thumbnail Title Date Uploaded Visibility Actions
file details PDF of thesis T3378 2026-06-10 Public Download