[RASMB] Boundary convection problem in the Optima ultracentrifuge

[Laue, Thomas]

Dear all-
Data acquired using the Optima ultracentrifuge may exhibit boundary convection, thus confounding the precision and accuracy of data analysis and interpretation from this instrument. Not all instruments exhibit the phenomenon, and the problem is intermittent on others. The root cause are thermal 'waves' that travel from the rotor edge towards the center. These waves produce density gradients in the solution which, in turn, may be driven by the gravitational field to cause turbulent flow and consequent mixing between adjacent sample regions. The problem is most pronounced in low-concentration buffers where little-to-no stabilizing density gradient forms due to solvent component redistribution.
There is a paper available describing the problem, its causes, how to detect it and ways to minimize its occurrence: https://biorxiv.org/cgi/content/short/2021.03.08.434487v1
Best wishes,
Tom


Professor Emeritus
University of New Hampshire

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