Opportunities for automation in continuous dynamic flow separation

Abstract

Many separation techniques, such as chromatography, adsorption, and filtration, are dynamic by nature, with the profiles of chemical species varying over time. This time-dependent behavior makes dynamic flow separation inherently batchwise. Recently, automation has enabled the transformation of these batchwise processes into continuous operations. Automation devices, including separators, detectors/transmitters, control systems, and control devices, can be implemented for either open-loop or closed-loop control. In this minireview, we provide an overview of recent technologies for automated dynamic flow separation systems. Major automated separation techniques, such as liquid–liquid extraction, counter-current chromatography, flash chromatography, and dead-end filtration, are highlighted to illustrate how automation facilitates their transition to continuous operation. Additional examples of integrated reaction–separation systems and self-optimizing platforms for identifying optimal separation conditions are presented as part of the outlook for automated setups. Challenges related to accurate in-line detection, complex sample matrices, and varying physical properties are also addressed.