13 Smart polymers for bioseparation and other biotechnological applications

Abstract

Abstract: The progress in development of a number of novel products using recombinant DNA technology and cell culturing, plus the demands for high product yield whilst preserving biological activity, require novel approaches for fast and cost-effective isolation and/or purification processes. Smart polymers (SPs) with their ability to undergo considerable changes in response to external stimuli make possible the development of novel technologies for isolation and purification. In this chapter the main applications of SPs in biotechnology and, in particular, in bioseparation, are discussed. Affinity precipitation, two-phase polymer separation, using SP membranes and SP chromatographic carriers are overviewed with a presentation of recent developments and discussion of future perspectives in these areas. Application of SP as catalysts is also discussed.