| abstract |
A barrier element for use in separating blood components is provided. The barrier element comprises a self-sustaining, fluid transmissive body comprising a plurality of thermoplastic fibers bonded to each other at spaced apart points of contact, the fibers collectively defining a tortuous fluid flow path through the fluid transmissive body from a fluid inlet surface to a fluid outlet surface, the fibers and the fluid transmissive body being configured to allow passage of at least one blood component therethrough while preventing the passage of a second blood component. |