Centrifugation

Name:
Centrifugation
Detailed information:
A separation technique based on the application of centrifugal force to a mixture or suspension of materials of closely similar densities. The smaller the difference in density, the greater the force required. The equipment used (centrifuge) is a chamber revolving at high speed (10,000 rpm or more) to impart a force up to 17,000 times gravity. The materials of higher density are thrown toward the outer portion of the chamber while those of lower density are concentrated in the inner portion. This technique is used effectively in a number of biological and industrial operations, such as separation of the components of blood, concentration of rubber latex, and separation of fat particles from other milk components. Separation of isotopes, e.g., those of uranium, by this method is now practicable for producing enriched uranium. This method is economically superior to the gaseous diffusion process.See Ultracentrifuge.