Microfilters can cope with harsh solvents
15 Jan 2000
Microfiltration users will be able to enjoy 'all the benefits' of traditional polycarbonate screen membrane filters, combined with the solvent resistance of polyester.
Osmonics, of Minnetonka, US, has developed Poretics polyester membrane filters, which it describes as 'precision, two-dimensional microporous screens'. These filters are said to offer low non-specific binding and negligible extractable biological inertness.
Cells readily grow on the Poretics membranes, Osmonics adds. Moreover, polyester screen membranes are naturally hydrophobic and do not need a wetting agent.
Poretics screen (capillary pore) membranes are employed in a range of life science, environmental and medical applications that would normally require Teflon.
Apart from strong bases, the membranes are resistant to most commonly used chemicals; they suit aggressive environments.
Osmonics claims to be the only manufacturer of track-etch membranes utilising the usual nuclear reactor irradiation method.
