A Centrifugal Gradocol Filter
S. D. Elek, G. R. F. Hilson · Journal of Clinical Pathology · 1951
Details of a centrifugal Seitz filter for sterilizing small quantities of fluid were reported some months ago in this journal (Hilson and Elek, 1950).It was then considered that a similar filter, fitted with a gradocol membrane (Elford, 1931) for virus or bacteriophage work where an asbestos pad is not suitable, might be useful.Moreover, a suggestion has been made (Latner and Slack, 1950) that such a device could also be used for the ultrafiltration of chemical mixtures.For these purposes a different design is necessary.The necessary requirements of such an apparatus are that it should be convenient for the handling of small quantities, since often the amount of available infectious material is limited.In addition it is essential that the apparatus should be safe in use, should not cause splashing, and should not leak.Since a wide range of pressures is needed when using gradocol membranes of different porosities both positive-pressure and suction types of apparatus are commonly employed.With centrifugal force, however, the whole range needed can easily be achieved.