Mass transfer characteristics of VMF Protein UF

VMF enables Step change in Ultrafiltration

This independent, peer‑reviewed study provides compelling evidence that VMF technology delivers a step change in protein ultrafiltration performance and establishes VMF as a validated, high‑performance solution for modern bioprocessing, particularly for the concentration of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and other high‑value protein products. By combining enhanced shear, reduced concentration polarization, reversible operation, and predictive modeling, VMF enables:

• Higher productivity
• Lower operating pressure
• Improved process robustness
• Rational process optimization based on mechanistic understanding

Significantly Enhanced Filtrate Flux

VMF enables a dramatic increase in filtrate flux compared to conventional tangential flow filtration:

• Introducing VMF increased local shear rates with vibration
• Filtrate flux increased by up to fivefold under optimized VMF conditions
• Vibration led to higher steady‑state flux values

These gains directly translate into shorter processing times or reduced membrane area requirements, both of which are critical cost and scalability drivers in bioprocessing.

Reduced Concentration Polarization With Reversible Fouling

Unlike conventional ultrafiltration systems, where higher pressure often leads to severe concentration polarization and fouling, VMF:

• Strongly suppresses concentration polarization through oscillatory shear
• Maintains fully reversible flux behavior, even at elevated pressures
• Fully reversible fouling

This confirms that performance gains stem from improved mass transfer rather than increased fouling or membrane degradation.

Process Optimization at Lower TMP

The study identified a distinct flux maximum at intermediate transmembrane pressure (TMP) during VMF ultrafiltration based on empirical data and a mass transfer model:

• For hIgG, maximum flux occurred at approximately 50–80 kPa
• Operating above this pressure reduced flux due to increased viscosity in the highly concentrated protein layer near the membrane
• This behavior was fully reversible and reproducible

Unlike traditional systems where “higher pressure is better,” VMF enables process optimization at lower TMP, improving energy efficiency while maximizing throughput.

Clear Advantages for Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) Concentration

The study highlights particular benefits for biopharmaceutical applications, including final formulation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs):

• At optimal TMP, vibration increased filtrate flux by 30–40% compared to higher‑pressure operation
• Higher flux at lower TMP reduces processing time and mechanical stress on sensitive biologics
• Enables more efficient handling of highly concentrated protein solutions