Is There a Universal Membrane for Syringe Filters?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a universal HPLC syringe filter membrane that will work for all applications, as different membranes have different properties. The two most important characteristics to understand are solvent compatibility (aqueous or organic) and if the membrane is low-protein binding (if protein binding is a concern for your application).

Let’s explore the various HPLC syringe filter membrane options:

If protein binding isn’t a concern, Nylon membranes are popular and used for general laboratory filtration of HPLC samples prior to injection. Nylon is solvent resistant, exhibits lows extractables, and is compatible with both aqueous and organic solvents. Please note that, since Nylon binds protein, it should not be used when protein recovery is important. Chrom Tech Tip: Our Nylon syringe filters have a blue color-coded ring around the housing body for easy identification.

Another membrane that is compatible with both aqueous and organic solvents is PVDF (polyvinylidene difluoride). Unlike Nylon, PVDF is a low-protein binding membrane. PVDF is solvent-resistant and exhibits low levels of UV-adsorbing extractables. It’s recommended for HPLC sample filtration and general biological filtration. Chrom Tech Tip: Our PVDF syringe filters have a yellow color-coded ring around the housing body for easy identification.

PES (polyethersulfone) is another membrane that is compatible with both organic and aqueous solvents and has low-protein binding characteristics. It is a mechanically strong membrane that’s low in inorganic extractable ions. Typical applications include ion chromatography, tissue culture filtration, and the filtration of proteins and nucleic acids. Chrom Tech Tip: Our PES syringe filters have a green color-coded ring around the housing body for easy identification.

PTFE is hydrophobic (therefore, it cannot be used with aqueous samples) and chemically resistant to all solvents, acids, and bases. PTFE does not impart extractables to the filtrate. PTFE is a good option when filtering organic solvents. Chrom Tech Tip: Our PTFE syringe filters have a red color-coded ring around the housing body for easy identification.

CA (cellulose acetate) is a very low-protein binding membrane (binds less protein than PVDF) and is ideal for aqueous-based samples. CA is not compatible with organic solvents. CA membranes are an excellent choice when maximum protein recovery in filtrate is critical. Chrom Tech Tip: Our CA syringe filters have an orange color-coded ring around the housing body for easy identification.

Although there is not one universal HPLC Syringe Filter membrane for all applications, one membrane may work for most applications in your HPLC workflow. Please reach out to Chrom Tech to discuss your application and which membrane suits your lab. Chrom Tech stocks the most common membrane types to cover a wide range of applications. We look forward to earning your business.