Measurement of Some Physical Properties of Aqueous Two-Phase Systems

The ability of aqueous two-phase systems to support bioseparations obviously depends intimately on the physicochemical properties of the polymers and yhe phases they form. Measurement of some of these properties can provide insight into the mechanisms responsible for the patition behavior observed. In a more practical sense, measurement of such properties can be used as quality control procedures for industrial separation processes. For instance, if a given separation is to be carried out repetitively and the batch of polymer is o be changed, measurement of the phase diagram and comparing it with what from the previous polymer lot is an obvious requirement. Determination of the interfacial tension might be a preferable procedure for this purpose, however.