Efflux vs GoSilico

Efflux and GoSilico both offer advanced mechanistic chromatography modeling software, enabling scientists and engineers to speed up downstream process development by reducing the number of experiments needed, while simultaneously greatly increasing process understanding. There are slight differences in modeling approaches and user experience, however. In this article, we dig deeper into how Efflux and GoSilico differ, so that you can choose the option that fits you and your needs the best.

Modeling Capabilities

Both Efflux and GoSilico offer advanced chromatography simulations through an intuitive user interface. In terms of actual modeling capabilities, Efflux and GoSilico are very similar. Both offer common transport models and binding isotherms out of the box, along with defining custom columns and chromatography systems (flowsheets). Efflux additionally includes pre-filled templates for the most common column, resin, and system types. This means that you can get started quicker without having to do in-depth column or system characterization.

User Interface and Experience

When it comes to how users interact with the two platforms, the main difference is that Efflux is web-based, while GoSilico is a separate standalone program that you download and install on your computer. Both come with pros and cons. For instance GoSilico will still work without an internet connection, while Efflux requires an internet connection while setting up the model (simulations are unaffected as they are performed on a separate server, but more about that in the section below). Efflux on the other hand runs in the browser, resulting in faster setup time and easier getting started.

Efflux Runs In The Cloud

The chromatography simulation software provided by Efflux runs in the browser, and all simulations are performed on elastic cloud compute resources. This allows you to simulate complex and computationally intensive processes without needing to worry about laptop battery life, software crashes, or annoying Windows updates stopping your simulations when you least expect it. It also allows you to start or monitor simulation progress on any device (computer, tablet, or phone).

Efflux's cloud-based compute approach enables users to simulate thousands of experiments all in parallel. This is very useful for users who work on multiple projects simultaneously. GoSilico on the other hand, is limited by the resources of the computer, and normally allows only 10-20 simulations to be run in parallel at any time (limited by the number of cores or threads of the CPU).

Collaboration, Versioning, and Sharing

Luckily, both Efflux and GoSilico offer complete project versioning functionality. If you are working on a project and want to test something, just create a new version, perform the test, and then go back to the old version. This workflow is fully supported in both Efflux and GoSilico.

When it comes to collaboration, the online nature of Efflux shows its advantage. Efflux offers real-time collaboration, similar to Google Docs, where multiple users can work on the same project at the same time. With GoSilico, this is a bit trickier, as save files need to be manually sent back and forth, and cannot be directly shared or collaborated on in real-time

Switching from GoSilico to Efflux

If you are currently using GoSilico and are considering moving to Efflux, the transition is straightforward. Efflux supports the same transport models and binding isotherms you are already familiar with, so your existing modeling knowledge transfers directly. Since Efflux runs in the browser, there is no software to install — you can start setting up your first project within minutes of creating an account.

Efflux also includes pre-filled templates for common column, resin, and system configurations. In many cases, this means you can recreate your existing setups faster than you originally built them in GoSilico, without needing to re-enter system characterization data from scratch.

If you have any questions about migrating your workflows, feel free to reach out to us. We are happy to help you get up and running.

Conclusion

Both Efflux and GoSilico provide powerful mechanistic chromatography modeling capabilities and can significantly reduce experimental effort while increasing process understanding. From a modeling perspective, the two platforms are largely comparable, offering similar transport models, binding isotherms, and system definitions.

The main differences lie in deployment and collaboration. GoSilico may appeal to users who prefer a locally installed tool and offline access, while Efflux is better suited for users that want a cloud solution with real-time collaboration and scalable compute resources. Ultimately, the best choice depends on how you work, who you work with, and if you value local or cloud-based simulations.