Posted by Chrom Tech on 7th Oct 2025
Syringe Filters for HPLC Sample Preparation: A Guide to Choosing the Right Filter for Consistent and Accurate Results
How to Choose the Right Syringe Filter for HPLC Sample Preparation
Sample preparation is a critical step in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). One of the most common techniques to ensure reliable results is syringe filtration, which removes particulates that can disrupt separation and analysis.
Choosing the Right Syringe Filter
The correct syringe filter depends on three key factors: disc size, pore size, and membrane material. Selecting the wrong filter can make it difficult to push the sample through or compromise your results. Learn more in our full guide: Selecting the Appropriate Syringe Filter.
1. Filter Disc Diameter
Chrom Tech syringe filters are available in two diameters:
- 13 mm – for smaller volumes up to ~10 mL
- 30 mm – for larger volumes up to ~200 mL
2. Filter Pore Size
The right pore size balances impurity removal with filtration ease. Smaller pores remove more contaminants but can clog more quickly with heavily contaminated samples.
3. Filter Membrane Material
Membrane material is often the most critical choice. Each option offers unique chemical compatibility and performance:
- Nylon: Solvent resistant; compatible with aqueous & organic solvents; not ideal for proteins.
- PTFE: Highly chemical resistant & hydrophobic; ideal for organic solvents; not for aqueous samples.
- PVDF: Solvent resistant; compatible with aqueous & organic solvents; low-protein binding (good for biological samples).
- PES: Strong, low-protein binding; used in ion chromatography with aqueous & organic solvents.
- CA (Cellulose Acetate): Lowest protein binding; excellent for aqueous samples; not for organics.
- PP (Polypropylene): Hydrophilic; broad compatibility with aqueous & organic solvents.
- Glass Fiber: High-capacity pre-filtration; suitable for large particulates in both aqueous and organic samples.
Syringe Filter Quick Selection Guide
| Membrane | Pore Sizes | 13 mm Part Numbers | 30 mm Part Numbers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon | 0.2, 0.45 µm | F13-NY020, F13-NY045 | F30-NY020, F30-NY045 |
| PTFE | 0.2, 0.45 µm | F13-PT020, F13-PT045 | F30-PT020, F30-PT045 |
| PVDF | 0.2, 0.45 µm | F13-PV020, F13-PV045 | F30-PV020, F30-PV045 |
| PES | 0.2, 0.45 µm | F13-PS020, F13-PS045 | F30-PS020, F30-PS045 |
| CA | 0.2, 0.45 µm | F13-CA020, F13-CA045 | F30-CA020, F30-CA045 |
| PP | 0.2, 0.45 µm | F13-PP020, F13-PP045 | F30-PP020, F30-PP045 |
| Glass Fiber | 0.7, 1.2 µm | F13-GF070, F13-GF120 | F30-GF070, F30-GF120 |
Why Use Syringe Filters?
Pre-filtration before injection removes particulates, resulting in consistent, reproducible chromatography. Syringe filters are cost-effective, easy to use, and widely available.
Chrom Tech offers competitive pricing and keeps popular syringe filters in stock so your lab can minimize downtime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between 13 mm and 30 mm syringe filters?
13 mm filters are ideal for small sample volumes (~10 mL), while 30 mm filters handle larger volumes up to ~200 mL more efficiently.
Which membrane material should I choose for protein samples?
Low-protein binding membranes like PVDF, PES, or CA are recommended to minimize protein loss during filtration.
Can I use PTFE filters for aqueous samples?
No, PTFE is hydrophobic and best suited for organic solvents. Use Nylon, PVDF, or PES for aqueous samples.
Why are syringe filters important in HPLC?
They remove particulates from samples, protecting columns, preventing blockages, and ensuring consistent, reproducible chromatography results.