Continuous cryopreservation of erythrocyte concentrate using the float method - KryoFloat

The project is carried out in cooperation with the Institute of Thermodynamics (IfT, Prof. Dr.-Ing. S. Kabelac) at LUH. The aim of the project is to develop a continuous cryopreservation method for erythrocyte concentrate (EC) to improve its shelf life and quality through extremely high cooling rates of 4000-5000 K/min. The method is based on the float process used in flat glass production: EC is applied to a cryogenic carrier liquid, formed into flat, frozen strips and cut to size for storage. The key to success is the provision of a suitable, biocompatible cryocarrier that reduces the amount of antifreeze required. A simulation model for optimal process control is being developed and continuously validated. Initial tests are being carried out with ethylene glycol, with porcine EC to be used later. The project will be driven by close collaboration between IMP's experimental work and IfT's simulation studies.