I am working on biofunctional (DNA-modified) hydrogel particles, which need to be washed by centrifugation. When performing in water, particles completely sedimentate. However, when washing with buffers, such as 15 mM Phosphate solution, the particle are sticked on the eppendorf vial walls. Is there any option or additive (maybe a surfactant like tween 20) that could help particle sedimentation in buffered solutions?
Dear Thomas, a surfactant may help but may cause issues by itself. Particles sticking to the vial walls points a colloidal instability, they have become hydrophobic. If the particles in your buffers are close to their iso-electric point they become hydrophobic and will stick to a hydrophobic surface. Please check the IEP of your particles (Micro-electrophoresis like e.g. Zetasizer) and if possible use buffers with different pH makign sure there are charges on your particles.
Without any idea of your chemsitry it is difficult to be more specific. I hope this helps, kind regards, Leo
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