METHOD OF SEPARATING COMPONENTS IN A SAMPLE USING SILANE-TREATED SILICA FILTER MEDIA

摘要

The present invention provides methods for separating one or more componentsof interest from a sample containing particulates and soluble materials. The methodcomprises the steps of: (a) filtering a sample through silica filter media whose surfacesilanol groups have reacted with one or more silanes, and (b) simultaneously capturingparticulates and binding a soluble component to the silica filter media. The boundsoluble component of interest is subsequently eluted from the silica filter media. In oneembodiment of the invention, unwanted soluble materials are captured by the treatedsilica filter media and desired component of interest is recovered from the flow-through. In another embodiment of the invention, different components of interest are recoveredfrom both the eluate and the flow-through. Preferred treated silica filter media aresilane-treated rice hull ash or diatomaceous earth with functional quarternary ammoniumgroup or functional sulphonate group. Particulates suitable for the present invention, forexample, are microorganisms.