The present invention relates to a high pressure homogenizing apparatus and, in particular, to an apparatus of this type which is used to break-up biological and microbiological structures.
Prior art apparatus of this type includes a homogenizing nozzle assembly wherein a chamber is provided with an inlet and an outlet. The inlet and outlet communicate via an annular gap, the height or width of the gap being adjustable by means of a piston which is displaceable relative to a stationary nozzle portion. The biological masses to be subjected to a break-up or decomposition process are forced through the annular gap by means of a high pressure pump which generates pressures up to one thousand bar or even higher. Depending upon the masses to be treated, the cells are more or less easy to decompose. The degree of break-up may be improved if the mass is forced several times through the apparatus. Nevertheless, the result is mostly unsatisfactory.