(858) 224-9100
Syringe Filters
Syringe filters in PTFE, Nylon, PES, PVDF, and more. From 4mm to 30mm diameter with multiple pore sizes.
Choosing the Right Syringe Filter
The right syringe filter depends on your sample matrix, analyte, and instrument. Membrane chemistry determines compatibility, pore size determines what gets through, and diameter determines flow rate and loading capacity. Below you'll find guides for each decision.
Which membrane is right for you?
| Membrane | Best For | Chemical Compatibility | Pore Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PES | Aqueous samples, biological media | Low protein binding, fast flow rates | 0.22µm, 0.45µm |
| Nylon | General purpose, HPLC mobile phases | Wide solvent compatibility (except strong acids) | 0.22µm, 0.45µm |
| PTFE | Aggressive solvents, acids, bases | Universally compatible, hydrophobic | 0.22µm, 0.45µm, 1.0µm |
| Cellulose Acetate | Aqueous solutions, tissue culture | Low protein binding, good for biologics | 0.22µm, 0.45µm |
| PVDF | Protein solutions, biological samples | Lowest protein binding, broad compatibility | 0.22µm, 0.45µm |
| H-PTFE | Aqueous + organic mixed samples | Hydrophilic PTFE, no pre-wetting needed | 0.22µm, 0.45µm |
| Glass Fiber | Viscous or particulate-heavy samples | Pre-filtration, high loading capacity | 1.0µm, 5.0µm |
| MCE | Sterility testing, aqueous filtration | Hydrophilic, good for water-based solutions | 0.22µm, 0.45µm |
| Polypropylene | Strong acids and bases | Excellent chemical resistance | 0.45µm |
| Mass Spec | LC-MS/MS sample prep | Ultra-low extractables for mass spec | 0.22µm |
Choose the right diameter
0.22µm — For columns with 3µm and below packings (UHPLC). Also standard for sterile filtration.
0.45µm — For columns with 5µm and above packings. Higher flow rates for routine HPLC.
1.0µm / 5.0µm — Pre-filtration of heavily particulate or viscous samples before finer filtration.
How to use a syringe filter
Draw Sample
Draw your sample into the syringe without the filter attached. Remove air bubbles by holding the syringe vertically and gently tapping.
Attach Filter
Connect the syringe filter to the Luer-Lock or Luer-Slip outlet of the syringe. Ensure a snug fit to prevent leaking.
Apply Pressure
Gently push the plunger with steady, even pressure. Avoid excessive force which can burst the membrane or cause bypass.
Collect Filtrate
Direct the filtered sample into your collection vessel — an autosampler vial, centrifuge tube, or volumetric flask.
Our SVX triple-layer filters combine a glass fiber prefilter with the primary membrane, giving you higher loading capacity without a separate prefiltration step. Ideal for dirty environmental or cannabis matrix samples.
Syringe Filter FAQ
Use 0.22µm filters for columns with 3µm and below particle packings (UHPLC). Use 0.45µm for columns with 5µm and above packings. When in doubt, 0.22µm is the safest choice to protect your column.
Standard PTFE is hydrophobic and won't wet with aqueous solutions. Use H-PTFE (hydrophilic PTFE) instead, or choose PES or Nylon for aqueous samples.
Single-layer (RT/DX) filters use one membrane. Triple-layer (SVX) filters add a glass fiber prefilter layer that catches large particulates before they reach the main membrane, extending filter life and preventing clogging with dirty samples.
Yes. We carry individually packaged sterile filters in select membrane types and sizes. Look for the "Sterile" designation in the product title.
Our Mass Spec membrane filters are specifically designed for LC-MS/MS with ultra-low extractables. PES and PVDF are also good choices for mass spec applications.
A 13mm filter handles roughly 1–10mL depending on sample viscosity and particulate load. For larger volumes, step up to 25mm or 30mm.



































































































