SCHOTT Launches ViewCell Flow Cell for Biopharma Process Control

On Oct. 18, 2023, SCHOTT announced that it has launched a new component for biopharmaceutical process analysis, the ViewCell flow cell. The purpose of this new component is to optimize downstream processes in the biopharmaceutical industry by enabling safe, continuous process control directly in the production line.

The introduction of the ViewCell flow cell follows the company’s launch of its ViewPort sensor port for bioreactors. Through a sterile-safe optical window, the flow cell allows for in-situ measurements of biological and physical parameters in downstream processing. The flow cell can be used during purification and filtration as well as during subsequent formulation. This capability thus reduces the need for both physical sampling and storage tanks, according to a company press release.

According to the press release, optical sensors or spectrometers are connected to the flow cell for monitoring, which means that the measuring instruments do not come into contact with the medium, and thus do not penetrate the sterile barrier. This allows for the sensors or spectrometers to be easily replaced during ongoing production, which the company states in its press release is a major advancement compared to fixed probes. In addition, a glass-to-metal connection allows for a sterile-safe design, which also increases the safety and efficiency of process analysis, contributing to an overall optimized yield.

The company stated in the press release that ViewCell allows biomanufacturers to quickly build and test small-scale flow systems for Raman analysis, which are used to mimic real-world industrial processes. The compact design of the device reduces the overall volume of sample material required, which cuts down on waste and costs—key considerations in the handling of expensive or difficult-to-obtain test materials.

Source: SCHOTT