A novel anion-exchange column for fast-flow liquid chromatography was developed. The column was prepared by immobilizing diethylaminoethyl groups on to the inner walls of regenerated cellulose hollow fibres. A detailed investigation was conducted of the parameters affecting diethylaminoethyl immobilization such as the NaOH concentration, the reaction temperature, the diethylaminoethyl concentration and the reaction span. Based upon the findings, a protocol to optimize the preparation of the diethylaminoethyl hollow fibres was established. The diethylaminoethyl hollow fibres prepared adsorbed 186 +/- 30 mg of albumin/g fibres.