The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for separating and isolating target molecules. In particular, the present invention comprises devices, such as CCDs, that contain particles without the need for support structures. Chromatography separation techniques, including but not limited to, ion exchange, size separation, affinity chromatography, ion exclusion, ligand exchange, reversed phase and normal phase partitioning, are used in the CCD. Methods also include low, medium and high pressure liquid chromatography. Such methods can be used for analytical, semi-preparative processes, initial clarification, preparative filtration and process scale applications.