Single-Use Measurement Cells Address Contamination Concerns in Bioprocessing

In a move that could reshape bioprocessing practices, South Fork Instruments has announced the availability of Kemtrak disposable optical measurement cells. These single-use cells are designed to meet the growing demand for contamination-free measurement solutions in the bioprocessing industry, potentially revolutionizing how pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies approach their manufacturing processes.

The new measurement cells address critical needs in various bioprocessing applications, including chromatographic separation, filtration, and protein concentration monitoring. By eliminating the risk of cross-contamination, these cells could significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of drug production and biotechnology research.

John Daly, Technical Director at South Fork Instruments, emphasized the industry's increasing demand for flexible, contamination-free measurement solutions. "These disposable cells deliver exceptional measurement precision while eliminating cleaning validation requirements and cross-contamination risks," Daly stated, highlighting the dual benefits of accuracy and safety.

The cells' design features are particularly noteworthy. With a zero dead volume design and optical path lengths ranging from 0.5mm to 10mm, they enable precise measurements across a wide range of 4.5 to 90 OD. This versatility allows for application in various stages of bioprocessing, from small-scale discovery to full production.

Manufactured from medical-grade poly-phenylsulfone (PPSU), the cells meet USP Class VI and FDA requirements for bioprocessing applications. This compliance ensures their suitability for use in the highly regulated pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, potentially streamlining approval processes for new manufacturing methods.

The flexibility of these measurement cells is further enhanced by their accommodation of line sizes from 1/8" to 1" with ready-to-attach hose barb connections. This feature, combined with a quick-release mechanism for precise positioning in the optical path, suggests that the cells could be easily integrated into existing bioprocessing systems, minimizing disruption to current operations.

The introduction of these single-use measurement cells could have far-reaching implications for the bioprocessing industry. By eliminating the need for cleaning and validation between uses, these cells could significantly reduce downtime in manufacturing processes. This efficiency gain could lead to increased production capacity and potentially lower costs for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.

Moreover, the enhanced safety provided by eliminating cross-contamination risks could lead to more reliable drug production processes. This increased reliability could, in turn, contribute to faster drug development timelines and potentially accelerate the introduction of new treatments to the market.

The impact of this technology may extend beyond the immediate benefits to manufacturers. Patients could ultimately benefit from more consistent drug quality and potentially lower drug prices due to more efficient production processes. Additionally, the reduced need for cleaning chemicals and water in the manufacturing process could contribute to more environmentally sustainable practices in the pharmaceutical industry.

As the bioprocessing industry continues to evolve, innovations like these disposable measurement cells play a crucial role in addressing the challenges of contamination control, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. The introduction of these cells by South Fork Instruments represents a significant step forward in bioprocessing technology, with potential ramifications for drug development, manufacturing efficiency, and patient care.