Statistical Evaluation of Sieve Constants in Ultrafiltration

The partial retention of the disperse phase in the ultrafiltration of a monodisperse system through an isoporous filter is interpreted on a statistical basis, and a simple expression for the sieve constant is evaluated in terms of the calibrated membrane porosity and the particle size. Curves calculated from this expression are in reasonable agreement with experimental data for the ultrafiltration of serum albumin, hemocyanin (Helix), and foot-and-mouth disease virus.