Perfusion processes using the acoustic separator, BioSep, typically involve continuous addition of fresh medium to the bioreactor, while cells are filtered from the harvest stream by the resonator chamber and returned to the bioreactor. Several modes of operation are presented making acoustic perfusion generally applicable, not only for suspended mammalian and animal cell cultures, but also for anchorage-dependent cell lines, or for the perfused culture of plant cells.

Features, advantages and benefits

  • simple design and installation (minimal operator involvement)
  • continuous operation; low-shear environment
  • compact sterilizable device (autoclavable / Steam-In-Place)
  • no physical filter surfaces to foul, no moving parts
  • small retention-volume; low hold-up times
  • increased efficiency; high cell-viability and consistent culture environment
  • high-grade finish (Ra <0.8 µm) to facilitate cleaning

Cost-effectiveness

  • more than 5x higher concentration of product compared to a batch culture
  • high viability of cells resulting in increased product quality
  • long-term operation (thousands of hours uninterrupted)
  • reduced downstream costs

Scale-up

The Biosep has a capacity of 1L to 200L/day, divided over three different models. The BioSep for perfusion rates up to 1000L/day currently is under construction. BioSep is using SonoSep Technology.

Download PDF BioSep here