A chromatography column for effecting chromatographic separation of at least two components of a sample flowing through the column. The column comprises a housing and at least one solid stationary phase within the housing. The stationary phase has chromatographic functionality and is effective for chromatographic separation. Means are provided for distributing the sample through the stationary phase and for collecting the sample after the sample has flowed through the stationary phase. The stationary phase comprises: (a) a plurality of layers of swellable fibrous matrix in sheet form having chromatographic functionality and being effective for chromatographic separation; and (b) a spacer means between each layer for permitting controlled swelling thereof and enhancing the distribution of sample flowing through the stationary phase.
