Plasma separator and a process for preparing the same

Abstract

A plasma separator containing porous hollow fibers composed of a polyolefin having elliptic pores defined by microfibrils and knotted portions, in which the pores of the hollow fibers, together with the spaces between the inner surface of the vessel and the fibers and between and inside the fibers, are filled with a sterile water or sterile solution and which has been sterilized with a sterilizing gas before the filling operation of the sterile water or solution. Incorporation of the water or solution into the pores is attained by applying a pressure to the water or solution. The incorporation of the water or solution causes the limiting pore diameter of the pores of the precursor hollow fibers to expand, thereby changing the pore characteristics of the precursor hollow fibers. The plasma separator, exhibiting high plasma component permeabilities, can be used safely, without troubles of hemolysis and residual chemical or solvents, and readily, without troubles of priming and washing. Therefore, the plasma separator is useful for therapy and plasma collection.