A theoretical model for hollow-fiber membrane partition chromatography of amino acid was established by taking into account the dissociation of amino acid and mass transfer in the stationary phase immobilized in the membrane. With all the parameters determined independently

the model simulated very well the experimental chromatograms of a model amino acid

L-tryptophan

indicating the applicability of the model. Theoretical analysis also revealed the dependence of mobile phase pH on local amino acid concentration. In addition

the experimental and simulation results showed that mobile phase ionic strength had significant effect on the retention and peak shape of amino acid. Using a gradient elution mode can improve the peak shape and increase the column efficiency.