Adsorption isotherms: experimental determination and application to preparative chromatography

Abstract

To model preparative chromatography adequately, the knowledge of the adsorption isotherms is the main prerequisite. To demonstrate this fact the relation between the adsorption isotherm and the shape of chromatographic profiles is elucidated and simple rules for chromatogram construction using equilibrium theory are presented. The main purpose of the paper is to summarize different experimental methods for the determination of isotherms for adsorption from solution. Most of the methods are applicable for gas phase adsorption as well. Several important models to describe experimental adsorption equilibrium data for single solute and multicomponent systems are discussed and evaluated. By presenting the available methods of isotherm measurement, this review intends to encourage users of preparative chromatography to apply these tools in designing their separation process.