How To Choose a Syringe Filter

Posted by Chrom Tech on 14th Oct 2025

How To Choose a Syringe Filter

Protect your HPLC system and achieve consistent results with Chrom Tech’s syringe filters. Designed for quick, single-use filtration, these affordable filters efficiently remove particulates from liquid samples before injection. When choosing a syringe filter, consider three factors: sample volume, pore size, and membrane compatibility.

1. Syringe Filter Diameter and Sample Volume

Sample volume determines the ideal filter diameter. Larger filters such as 30 mm handle up to 200 mL and offer faster filtration due to greater membrane surface area. Smaller 13 mm filters suit volumes under 10 mL and are standard for most chromatography workflows.

2. Syringe Filter Pore Size

Chrom Tech supplies two standard pore sizes: 0.45 µm and 0.2 µm. 0.45 µm filters effectively protect columns and instruments from general particulates. For UHPLC or assays requiring high sensitivity, 0.2 µm filters prevent clogging and maintain consistent backpressure.

3. Syringe Filter Membrane Options

Select a membrane based on your solvent system and sample composition. Chrom Tech stocks the most common HPLC membranes:

  • Nylon (Blue): Solvent-resistant, low extractables, compatible with aqueous & organic samples; binds protein—avoid for protein recovery.
  • PTFE (Red): Hydrophobic and chemically inert; ideal for aggressive organic solvents.
  • PVDF (Yellow): Low UV-absorbing extractables and low-protein binding; excellent all-purpose membrane.
  • PES (Green): Mechanically strong, low extractables, and low-protein binding—ideal for proteins, nucleic acids, and ion chromatography.
  • CA (Orange): Very low-protein binding; best for aqueous protein-recovery applications; not organic compatible.
  • PP (Purple): Broad chemical compatibility, hydrophilic; versatile for mixed solvent systems.
  • Glass Fiber (Dark Purple): High-flow pre-filter for large particulates or viscous samples.

Chrom Tech Syringe Filter Ordering Guide

13 mm Filters

Part Number Membrane Pore Size Diameter Aqueous Organic Low-Protein Binding Color
F13-CA020 CA 0.2 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ Orange
F13-CA045 CA 0.45 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ Orange
F13-NY020 Nylon 0.2 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ Blue
F13-NY045 Nylon 0.45 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ Blue
F13-PP020 PP 0.2 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ Purple
F13-PP045 PP 0.45 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ Purple
F13-PS020 PES 0.2 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ ✔ Green
F13-PS045 PES 0.45 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ ✔ Green
F13-PT020 PTFE 0.2 µm 13 mm ✔ Red
F13-PT045 PTFE 0.45 µm 13 mm ✔ Red
F13-PV020 PVDF 0.2 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ ✔ Yellow
F13-PV045 PVDF 0.45 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ ✔ Yellow
F13-GF070 Glass Fiber 0.7 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ Dark Purple
F13-GF120 Glass Fiber 1.2 µm 13 mm ✔ ✔ Dark Purple

30 mm Filters

Part Number Membrane Pore Size Diameter Aqueous Organic Low-Protein Binding Color
F30-CA020 CA 0.2 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ Orange
F30-CA045 CA 0.45 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ Orange
F30-GF070 Glass Fiber 0.7 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ Dark Purple
F30-GF120 Glass Fiber 1.2 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ Dark Purple
F30-NY020 Nylon 0.2 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ Blue
F30-NY045 Nylon 0.45 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ Blue
F30-PP020 PP 0.2 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ Purple
F30-PP045 PP 0.45 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ Purple
F30-PS020 PES 0.2 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ ✔ Green
F30-PS045 PES 0.45 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ ✔ Green
F30-PT020 PTFE 0.2 µm 30 mm ✔ Red
F30-PT045 PTFE 0.45 µm 30 mm ✔ Red
F30-PV020 PVDF 0.2 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ ✔ Yellow
F30-PV045 PVDF 0.45 µm 30 mm ✔ ✔ ✔ Yellow

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I properly use a syringe filter?

Draw the sample into a disposable luer syringe, attach the filter, and hold vertically. Press the plunger slowly for uniform flow and to avoid membrane rupture. Replace the filter if resistance increases unexpectedly.

What syringe filter types does Chrom Tech offer?

Chrom Tech offers seven membrane types: Nylon, PTFE, PVDF, PES, CA, PP, and Glass Fiber— each color-coded for quick identification and chosen for solvent and protein compatibility.

Which membranes are best for protein-containing samples?

Use low-protein-binding membranes such as PVDF, PES, or CA. Nylon binds proteins and should be avoided for protein recovery.

Are there alternatives to syringe filters?

Alternatives include centrifuge filter tubes, syringeless filter vials, Buchner funnels, and 96-well filter plates—ideal for high-throughput sample prep.

How do I choose the correct size and pore rating?

Use 13 mm filters for ≤ 10 mL samples and 30 mm filters for up to 200 mL. Select 0.45 µm for general protection or 0.2 µm for finer particulates and sensitive assays.

Summary

Choosing the correct syringe filter ensures cleaner samples and extended column life. For assistance selecting the right membrane or diameter, contact Chrom Tech at support@chromtech.com. Our color-coded designs simplify identification and improve lab efficiency while safeguarding your chromatography system.