Labware
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ACLAR® film
ACLAR® film: 33C Fluoropolymer Films A flexible thermoplastic fluoropolymer films with high optical clarity and a smooth surface. Macrophages selectively adhere to its surface. Lymphocytes do not. ACLAR® films can be cut into discs (from disc size 7.94mm diameter to 25.4mm diameter), as a substrate in standard tissue culture, after washing, can produce an almost pure collection of macrophages. Discs can then be fixed, dehydrated, critical point dried and attached to SEM specimen mount stubs. ACLAR® film is helpful for HRP studies including LM evaluation, prior to thin sectioning. After processing through HRP, fixation and dehydration series and embedding procedure schedules, one can place a slice of tissue sample with a drop of epoxy resin on a small piece of ACLAR® Film. Place another piece of ACLAR® on top, and press between two pieces of glass slide. Polymerise in the oven. Once polymerised, ACLAR® film peels off easily to reveal a thin plate of embedded tissue which is conveniently examined under the light microscope References: "Ultrastructure of HRP -Labelled Neurons: A Comparison of Two Sensitive Techniques." G.M Mawe, J.C. Bresnahan and M.S. Beattie. Brain Research Bulletin, Vol. 10, pp. 551 - 558, 1983. "Fluoroplastic Coverslip for Long-Term Nerve Tissue Culture. " Edmund B. Masurovsky and Richard P. Bunge. Stain Technology, Vol. 43, No 3, 1968. Kingsley R. E., Cole N. L. "Preparation of cultured mammalian cells for transmission and scanning electron microscopy using ACLAR FILM ". J. Of Electron Microscopy Technique, 10, pp. 77-85, 1988. Larue D. T., Wimer J. A. "Postembedding immunocytochemistry of large sections of brain tissue: an improved flat-embedding technique". J. Of Neurosciences Methods", 68, pp125-132, 1996 Stratton C. J., Baguinov Y, Sanders K. M., Ward S. M. "Ultrastructural analysis of the transdifferentiation of smooth muscle to skeletal muscle in the murine esophagus. Cell Tissue Research, 301, p 284, 2000 UltRx 2000 Fluoropolymer Films ACLAR® is made from fluorinated-chlorinated resins. There are four basic film types–the homopolymer ACLAR® Rx Series, the copolymers ACLAR® 22A and 33C and the new ACLAR® Cx. (Honeywell/Allied Signal). The chemical make-up of all ACLAR® products provide an exceptional moisture barrier. ACLAR® is crystal clear, biochemically inert, highly resistant to most chemicals and sterilisable by heat or radiation. ACLAR® is used widely in pharmaceutical, medical, sensitive electronics and military packaging. Aclar® UltRx 2000 is a 51µm PCTFE homopolymer, high performance barrier film for the pharmaceutical and medical markets. It thermoforms well on conventional blister packaging equipment and provides the best barrier of any clear film. Features: Crystal clear, high UV transparency– ideal for use in UV curing of embedding resin in microscopy. Chemically stable and biochemical\y inert– the product of choice for growing cell cultures. Low dielectric constant, high electric strength and dissipation factor– offers excellent cell attachment even through lengthy processing procedures. Low surface energy–and separates easily from epoxy. Exhibits no detectable autofluorescence– ideal for fluorescent microscopy. A non-flammable, non-aging co-polymer– which is suited for sterilisation by heat or UV. Crystalline melting point is 206°C – stable in the SEM. Flexible and soft– can be sectioned without damage to the ultramicrotome knives. ACLAR® UltRx 2000 Physical Data Sheet: (These are only typical values and are not to be interpreted as product specifications) Typical Value Properties@ 23°C ~50% RH Metric Test Method Gravity Specific 2.11 ASTM D1505 Yield 2.0 mil 9.34 m2/kg Haze <1% ASTM D1003 Crystalline Melting Point 211°C ASTM D4591 Dimensional Stability, 10 min @ 149°C -MD -TD <+6% <-6% ASTM D1204 Tensile Strength -MD -TD 48-69 MPa 31-52 MPa ASTM D882 Elongation (MD/TD) 150-200% / 175-250% ASTM D882 Modulus, Secant (MD/TD) 1276-1379 MPa ASTM D882 Surface Tension (Treated Side) ≥42 dynes/cm Water Vapour Transmission Rate: gm/m2/day ASTM F1249 @ 25°C/60% RH 0.0186 @ 30°C/60% RH 0.0388 @ 40°C/75% RH 0.102 @ 37.8°C/100% RH 0.119
Air-O-Cell® Sampling Cassette
EMS65210-10, EMS65210-50 The Air-O-Cell is a unique sampling cassette specifically designed for the rapid collection and quantitative analysis of a wide range of airborne aerosols. It collects both viable and non-viable particulate, such as mould spores, pollen, insect parts, skin cell fragments, fibres (asbestos, fibreglass, cellulose, etc.), and inorganic particles. Applications Suggested and potential applications include, but are not limited to, the following Indoor Air Quality: Mould spores, pollen, insect parts, dust mites, skin cell fragments, plant fragments, dust, fibres, combustion emissions, etc. Home Inspection: Mould contamination before or after real estate transactions Flood Restoration: Evaluation of mould spore contamination before, during, and after remediation Allergy Testing: Mould spores, pollen, insect parts, dust mites Clean Room Monitoring: Evaluation of low airborne dust and contaminants from personnel (skin cells, clothing fibres, cosmetics) Fibre Analysis: Asbestos, fibreglass, cellulose, ceramics Stack Emissions: Fly ash, inorganic dust Advantages Provides excellent detection limits over conventional filter sampling utilising 25mm or 37mm diameter filter cassettes Eliminates sample loss to cassette walls known to occur with filter samples from vibration or static charge during sampling and shipment Eliminates the need for direct handling or preparation of collection media or microscope slides in the field Eliminates potential cross-contamination between samples and during shipping that may occur with other devices Unique optically transparent and smooth collection media allows direct staining and examination by bright field, dark field, and phase contrast microscopy The sampling media is compatible with a wide range of biological stains and refractive index oils allowing for direct quantitative analysis of biological and inorganic particles The Air-O-Cell will work with virtually any kind of sampling pump capable of pulling a 15L/min vacuum air flow Principle of Operation The Air-O-Cell operates on the well-established principle of inertial impaction. Particles in the air stream are accelerated as they approach the tapered inlet opening and drawn through a small slit aimed directly at a glass slide. This glass slide contains a sticky and optically clear sampling media which can permanently collect and hold particles. As the particles come through the slit, the air velocity forces the particles to impact into the sampling media, while the air stream makes a sharp 90 degree turn and proceeds around the slide and out of the cassette. The air flow path through the Air-O-Cell cassette is illustrated in Figure 1. RECOMMENDED SAMPLING PROCEDURES General The Air-O-Cell sampler is designed to operate at an optimal flow rate of 15L/min. The user can employ any sampling pump capable of a minimum flow rate of 15L/min. It is also capable of operating in any vertical or horizontal orientation, or in restricted access spaces smaller than 2 inches in diameter. As a result, the Air-O-Cell is ideally suited for sampling in HVAC ducts, plenums, wall cavities, or other confined spaces. Sampling of Ambient Static Environments A rotameter calibrated to a primary standard, soap bubble tube/meter or a dry bubble meter, should be used to calibrate the sampling pump to a flow rate of 15L/min. Some pumps only work with specific calibration devices. Please reference the owner's manual for your pump to verify if any special calibration methods should be employed. Because the cassette does not produce significantly measurable back pressure, the rotameter can optionally be connected directly to the pump (without the Air-O-Cell cassette in line) to calibrate the pump flow rate. To begin sampling, remove the tape seals covering the inlet and outlet and place them on the side of the cassette. Then connect the Air-O-Cell cassette to the sampling pump using flexible tubing. Turn the sampling pump on for an appropriate sampling time ranging from 1-10 minutes. Both seals will release after sampling is complete. Unlike spore trap impaction or filter devices, the Air-O-Cell cassette can be oriented in any vertical or horizontal direction, without concern for sample loss of large particles or vibration. "Outdoor background" samples should always be collected for comparison purposes. Sampling in HVAC Systems The Air-O-Cell cassette design allows for isokinetic sampling of aerosols in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Sampling can be conducted at the supply diffuser or inside most conventional ducts. The inlet of the cassette should always be facing in the flow stream. The inlet orifice has a cross-sectional area of approximately 11mm x 15mm tapering to a slit with dimensions of 1.055mm x 14.4mm. The flow velocity can be increased up to 30L/min with conventional sampling pumps, however, air flows exceeding 20L/min may potentially damage some bioaerosols or cause "bounce off". Isokinetic sampling can be conducted in most air duct systems with flow rates of up to approximately 600fpm. Approximate face velocities for the Air-O-Cell cassette are given below for both the entrance orifice and slit exit in the table below. Air-O-Cell Theoretical Face Velocities Flow Rate (L/min) Orifice Face Velocity (fpm) Orifice Face Velocity (mph) Slit Face Velocity (fpm) Slit Face Velocity (mph) 15.0 299 3.4 3110 35.3 20.0 399 4.5 4146 47.2 25.0 499 5.7 5183 59.0 28.3 (1 cubic ft.) 564 6.4 5867 66.8 30.0 598 6.8 6219 70.6 RECOMMENDED SAMPLING TIME INTERVALS Although the Air-O-Cell cassette can provide excellent detection limits over conventional filter sampling utilising 25mm or 37mm diameter filter cassettes, it is also sensitive to overloading. In an appropriately loaded sample, the trace should be barely visible and transparent, but not opaque or dense. If the sample appears highly visible or opaque, additional shorter time interval samples should be collected. The recommended sampling flow rate is 15L/min. As mentioned above, flow rates exceeding 20L/min have been known to cause "bounce off" of large particles, such as pollen grains. Flow rates lower than 10L/min will not collect the small mould spores, such as Aspergillus and Penicillin, as efficiently. Recommended sampling times (at 15L/min) for different environmental sampling conditions are given in the next table. Environmental Dust Conditions Sampling Time 15L/min Outdoor sampling on a clean windless day 10.0-60.0 min "Clean" office environment or outdoors (no visible dust) 10.0 min "Indoor" environment, high activity personnel 5.0 min "Indoor" environment, evidence of drywall renovation, or industrial dust 1.0 min "Indoor" environment, visible dust emissions from point sources present 0.5 min RECOMMENDED LABORATORY ANALYSIS PROCEDURES Slide Preparation One to two (1-2) drops of staining or mounting medium should be placed in the centre of a clean pre-labeled slide. Air-O-Cell cassettes should only be opened in the laboratory. The sealing band should be cut, and the glass cover slip removed and slowly placed on an angle with the media collection side down onto the staining solution. Do not press down on the slide during or after staining. Excess staining solution should be removed from around the edges of the coverslip with a tissue wipe or cotton swab after 10 minutes have elapsed. This will ensure even staining of the sample. It should be noted that the slide can also optionally be mounted media side up. To do this, use a drop of fingernail polish to secure the Air-O-Cell slide to the microscope slide. Then place a couple drops of stain on the media and place a cover slip on top. Stains Numerous stains may be used during laboratory analysis. These include lacto-phenol cotton blue, aniline blue, calbreras stain and acid fusion stain. The most common stain used for mould spore analysis is lacto-phenol cotton blue. To achieve the best clarity of the sample, using stains that have little or no water content is preferred. Water can cause the sample to appear cloudy. Microscopic Examination Analysis of the collected sample should be performed by an experienced Microbiologist, Aerobiologist, Mycologist, or Envrionmental Microscopist. Counting and quantification of sample components is conducted by counting calibrated cross-sections of the deposited sample trace. The number and type of particles counted per cubic meter of air is calculated based on the length of the deposition trace, length of trace actually examined, volume of air collected, and number of particles counted. The Air-O-Cell particle deposition area at a flow rate of 15L/min is approximately 1.1mm wide by 14.5mm long, yielding an approximate area of 15.95mm2. The width of the deposition trace will vary slightly with flow rate and media thickness, and will vary slightly in particle density from the middle to outer edges of deposition. For this reason, using the deposition trace area is not recommended for direct calculation of particle concentrations. The recommended procedure for calculating particle concentrations is based on using the Air-O-Cell trace length and microscope field diameter, and will be discussed below. One field of view counted is defined as the calibrated diameter of the microscope field of view (in mm) covering one cross-sectional pass or "traverse" across the sample deposition trace. A typical sample preparation and microscopic counting procedure is illustrated in Figure 2. The calculation of particle concentration per cubic meter of air can be performed by using the following equations. First, determine the actual air volume collected in cubic meters by following the calculation given in Equation 1. Second, determine the length of sample trace counted based on the microscope field of view and number of fields of view counted. Accurately calibrate and measure the diameter of the microscope field of view using a stage micrometer slide. Remember, each microscope is different, and each different combination of ocular and objective lens must be calibrated separately. Stated lens magnifications are rarely precise. The microscopist should then record the number of complete traverses examined across the width of the deposition trace and use the formula given in Equation 2 to calculate the actual length of the deposition trace examined. The concentrations of particles (counts per m3) can then be determined by using Equation 3. Two example calculations for mould spores and pollen grains are given below. RECOMMENDED MICROSCOPIC COUNTING GUIDELINES Counting and Identification Guidelines Pollen: Entire trace or 100 grains (whichever comes first) should be examined at a minimum magnification of 200X. Identification and speciation should be performed at a minimum magnification of 400X. Mould Spores: A minimum of 15% of the entire trace should be examined or a minimum of 100 mould spores counted (whichever comes first). Identification and speciation should be performed at minimum magnification of 400X. Fibres: The entire trace or 100 fibres (whichever comes first) should be examined at a minimum magnification of 200X. Other Aerosols: Skin cell fragments, combustion emissions, insect parts – A minimum of 10% of the entire trace should be examined or a minimum of 100 particles counted (whichever comes first). Storage and Operating Conditions This product should be stored at room temperature between 15-28°C. Do not use product at temperatures below 0°C. If product has been exposed to freezing temperatures immediately before sampling, it is recommended to let the product acclimate to the sampling environment before use.
Breathe-Easy® and Breathe Easier™ Sealing Films
EMS70536-10, EMS70536-20 Directions Step 1: Peel away paper backing and use end tabs to position evenly on plate. Step 2: With a rubber brayer, roll in different directions to ensure uniform adhesion to the plate. Step 3: Seperate the top protective layer by peeling the extended clear tab at the corner. With free hand, hold the bottom layer and peel towards centre of the film.
Bullseye Precision Vacuum Gauges
Easy to set up with only three buttons; see program select menu.
CryoELITE® Cryogenic Vials Shelf Packs
EMS61807 to EMS61808 Introduction CryoELITE® Cryogenic plastic vials are intended for cryo preservation of human analytical samples for IVD use. Recommended Safety Gear: Insulated gloves, face shield, lab coat to protect from explosions. Freezing Cooling rates control the size of the ice crystals and the rate at which they are formed, both of which affect cell recovery. In most cases, in order to maximise cell recovery of samples, a slow, uniform cooling rate of -1°C per minute from ambient is recommended. This can be accomplished by placing the vials in a -80°C freezer for 2-3 hours (which is close to decreasing sample temperature by 1°C per minute) and works well for a wide range of cell types. Storage The temperature at which frozen cells are stored will affect their viability. Storage at -80°C may permit slow chemical reactions from small amounts of unfrozen water, resulting in cell death. Therefore, most cell lines should be stored at temperatures less than -150°C. Note: CryoELITE® Cryogenic Vials are recommended for use in the vapour phase of liquid nitrogen. CAUTION: Storage of CryoELITE® Cryogenic Vials in liquid phase should be at your own risk. Storage in the liquid phase may lead to the explosion of the cryogenic vial and/or the release of infectious substances. Thawing In contrast to freezing, rapid thawing of cells is needed to maintain viability. When removing vials from the freezer, insulated gloves should be worn to protect you from burns from the low temperatures. The vials are designed with a superior seal, but wearing a face shield and laboratory coat help to protect against explosions is highly recommended. Directly after removal from storage, vials should be thawed in a 37°C water bath. As the last ice crystals melt, remove the vial from the water. Wipe. Spray, or submerse the vial with 70% ethanol before opening it in a bio-safety hood. Proper Use of CryoELITE® Cryogenic Vials Note: Observe your institutional safety guidelines. Remove plastic contents bag from cardboard over pack. Identify and record lot number into laboratory notebook. Before opening in a bio-safety hood: wipe, spray plastic contents bag with 70% ethanol. Open bag under a bio-safety hood and remove vials as needed without placing hands inside the bag. Remove cap of vial with one hand while dispensing desired contents in the other hand. To ensure proper seal, do not fill cryogenic vial past appropriate working volume limit. Once dispensing is complete, immediately re-seal using the cap in hand. Make certain to apply screw cap hand-tight. Place vial into a rack, freezer box or storage box. Repeat as necessary.
Print-N-Shield™ Thermal Transfer Labels
Print & Shield self-laminating permanent or removable labels that allow for durable identification of equipment, dishware, animal cages, and any other item intended for use in dishwashers. Frequently Asked Questions: Do I need a ribbon to print on these labels? Yes, Print-N-Shield™ labels are thermal transfer printable and require a ribbon to be printed. To achieve the proper printout, these labels require a RR-class ribbon of the same width or larger. Are these self-laminating labels writable? Yes, Print-N-Shield™ labels are also writable using permanent ink markers. Are these labels suitable for cryogenic conditions? No, Print-N-Shield™ labels will only withstand deep-freeze conditions (-80°C), they are not recommended for cryogenic environments. For cryogenic self-laminating thermal-transfer labels, we suggest our Cryo-WrapTAG™ labels. Can these labels be used in sterilisation protocols? No, SLTP-class labels withstand temperatures as high as +93°C. For laminated labels that will also withstand sterilisation protocols, see the full range of autoclavable labels. Are these labels chemical-resistant? Yes, after the clear lamination is applied, these labels can withstand exposure to harsh chemicals, such as detergents and disinfectants. Are these labels resistant to abrasion? Yes, the lamination provides protection against heavy-use, including scratches and abrasion. Are SLTP-class labels Removable? SLTP-class labels are coated with a permanent adhesive, that is not made for easy removal. SLTR-class are removable self-laminating labels. Are these calibration label available in other colours? No, our Print-N-Shield labels are not available in a variety of colours. Contact us for additional colour options. How do I print these labels from a template? Barcoding or label design software can be used to create templates that conform to the size of your label. You can then insert design elements within the template, for easy printing. Can I have these labels preprinted by you with my desired information? Yes, Print-N-Shield labels can be preprinted with full-colour graphics and logos, as well as variable or serialised information from a database. Contact us for more about custom printing options.
PTFE (Teflon®) Moulds
PTFE (Teflon®) flat embedding moulds such as RL090 (16 cavity) and RL091. (3 cavity), are designed for use with methacrylate or acrylic resins including LR White, LR Gold and GMA. Two stage filling The cavities in each mould should be partially filled with resin and the sample positioned. Next the cavities are overfilled so that resin from one block cavity just spills into the adjoining overflow/border cavity. The recessed overflow/border cavity around the block cavities should not be filled. The metal frame should be removed from the mould prior to use for polymerisation. The frame is used to restore flatness to the mould after the blocks have been removed. Exclude Air Low viscosity resins are oxygen sensitive during polymerisation. The cavities in the PTFE/Teflon® moulds can be covered with two Thermanox® cover slips (22 x 60mm) or a strip of ACLAR™ FILM. These coverings will ensure anaerobic polymerisation with either thermal or low temperature UV polymerisation. The cover slips and/or film are placed over the resin-filled cavities in the following manner: One end of the cover slip or film is placed at the end of the recessed area surrounding the block cavities and held in place gently with a wooden stirring stick or similar device. With a tweezers, grip the other end of the cover slip or film and gently lower it down over the resin-filled cavities. This will eliminate air bubbles and allow the excess resin to wick out to the edges of the recessed border, ensuring an anaerobic environment underneath the cover slip or film. Do not overfill the cavities to the extent that the resin will wick beyond the recessed border cavity. If this happens and the metal frame is being used the mould and frame will become bonded together. ACLAR embedding film is: Optically clear Sectionable with glass or diamond knives Easily removed from polymerised plastic Resistant to all EM chemicals GL081 Thermanox coverslips are: Easily removed from polymerised plastic Sectionable with glass knives
Selecting Your Hawach Syringe Filter
Complete syringe filter selection guide for HPLC and LC-MS. Compare PES, PTFE, PVDF, Nylon and more. What is a Syringe Filter and How Do You Choose One? A syringe filter is a disposable laboratory filtration device specifically designed for sample preparation in HPLC, LC-MS, and other analytical applications. Choosing the right filter depends on three key factors : membrane material (PES, PTFE, PVDF, Nylon, etc.), pore size (0.22µm, 0.45µm, or above), and sample type (aqueous, organic, biological, or high-particulate). Selecting the wrong combination can lead to sample loss, filter clogging, shortened column lifetime, or invalid results—costing labs time and resources. Why Syringe Filter Selection Affects HPLC and LC-MS Results Syringe filter selection is not only a physical filtration step, it directly influences analytical accuracy in HPLC and LC-MS workflows. The membrane structure, surface chemistry, and pore characteristics can significantly affect sample integrity and instrument performance. Protein Binding and Sample Loss Mechanism In biological and protein-rich samples, membrane materials such as nylon may adsorb analytes due to hydrophobic interactions and surface charge effects. In contrast, PES and CA membranes exhibit low protein binding, helping preserve analyte concentration and improving LC-MS signal reproducibility. Membrane Chemistry and LC-MS Signal Suppression Certain membranes can introduce extractables or adsorb polar compounds, leading to ion suppression in LC-MS analysis. Low-extractable materials such as PES and hydrophilic PTFE help maintain stable baseline signals and reduce matrix effects. Particle Retention and HPLC Column Protection In HPLC systems, even sub-micron particles can accumulate inside the column inlet frit, increasing backpressure and reducing column lifetime. Proper syringe filtration (typically 0.45µm or 0.22µm) prevents particulate contamination and stabilises chromatographic performance. Key Insight : Syringe filter selection is not just filtration, it is a pre-analytical control step that directly affects chromatographic resolution, sensitivity, and instrument lifetime. Stop Choosing Syringe Filters Based on Habit In many laboratories, syringe filters are treated as routine consumables, selected out of habit rather than careful consideration. In reality, this small device directly impacts four critical aspects of lab work: Chromatographic accuracy – reliable, reproducible results for HPLC and LC-MS Column lifetime – prevents particulate buildup that damages columns used in HPLC/LC-MS Sample recovery – minimises loss of analytes or proteins in LC-MS and HPLC samples Method reproducibility – maintains consistency across HPLC and LC-MS experiments A mismatched filter can invalidate hours of analytical work. This guide maps application – membrane – pore size – product so you can choose with confidence. What this guide solves for you : HPLC or LC-MS sample preparation; biological or protein-containing samples; organic solvents or mixed mobile phases; high particulate or viscous samples that require prefiltration. Step 1: Define Your Sample Type (Primary Decision Layer) Aqueous Samples Examples: Buffers, cell culture media, biological fluids (serum, plasma), aqueous extracts Recommended membranes : PES, CA, MCE – naturally hydrophilic, fast filtration without pre-wetting, ideal for LC-MS and HPLC bioanalysis. Organic Solvent Samples Examples: Acetonitrile, methanol, strong acids (e.g., HCl), strong bases (e.g., NaOH), aggressive organic solvents Recommended membranes : PTFE (Hydrophobic) – superior chemical resistance, requires pre-wetting with methanol for aqueous use. Practical Tip : Pre-wet by passing 1-2 mL of methanol through the filter before using with aqueous solutions to break the hydrophobic barrier. Mixed Aqueous + Organic Systems Examples: LC-MS mobile phases, gradient HPLC systems, mixed solvent extractions Recommended membranes : PVDF, Hydrophilic PTFE – combine solvent resistance with hydrophilicity, perfect for the most common HPLC and LC-MS use cases. High Particulate / Viscous Samples Examples: Environmental water (sediment-laden), food extracts (oils, sauces), suspensions, sludges Recommended solution : Glass Fiber prefilter + membrane filter – traps large particles, prevents clogging of the membrane filter and extends its lifespan. Practical Tip : Choose a GF prefilter with 1.0µm pore size for optimal particulate trapping before using a 0.45/0.22µm membrane filter. Step 2: Select the Right Membrane Membrane Best Use Key Advantage Chemical Compatibility (Quick) Link PES Biological, protein samples, LC-MS bioanalysis Ultra-low protein binding, high flow rate Aqueous, mild organics (up to 10% methanol) PES filters Nylon General HPLC, routine use, non-critical Broad solvent compatibility, cost-effective Most aqueous & organics (avoid strong oxidisers) Nylon filters PTFE (Hydrophobic) Pure organic solvents, harsh chemicals Excellent chemical resistance, low extractables All organics, acids, bases (aqueous incompatible unless pre-wetted) PTFE filters (hydrophobic) PTFE (Hydrophilic) LC-MS gradients, mixed systems Universal (aqueous + organic), low background noise Universal PTFE filters (hydrophilic) PVDF Mixed aqueous-organic, flexible workflows Low protein binding, versatile Most organics, aqueous (avoid strong oxidisers) PVDF filters MCE Sterile filtration, microbiology High retention (bacteria removal) Aqueous, weak organics (avoid acetonitrile) MCE filters Cellulose Acetate (CA) Protein/enzyme solutions Very low protein adsorption Aqueous, weak acids/bases CA filters Glass Fiber (GF) Prefiltration, high particulate High dirt-holding capacity Most solvents (avoid HF) GF filters Polypropylene (PP) Aggressive chemicals, high purity Excellent chemical resistance Most acids, bases, organics PP filters Activated Carbon Colour/odour removal, adsorption Removes organic impurities Aqueous & organics Sterile Cell culture, pharmaceutical QC Gamma-sterilised (SAL 10 -6 ), low endotoxin Depends on membrane (PES/MCE) Prefilter Combination Difficult, high-particulate samples Integrated prefilter + membrane Depends on membrane Decision shortcut : If sample recovery is critical – PES. If universal solvent compatibility needed -Hydrophilic PTFE. For routine HPLC – Nylon or PVDF. Step 3: Select Pore Size Always match pore size to your analytical requirement , not filtration speed. This is critical for reliable HPLC and LC-MS results. Pore Size Primary Use Case Common Applications 0.22µm Sterilisation, bacteria removal (SAL 10 -6 ) Sterile buffers, cell culture media, pharmaceutical QC, bacteria-free samples for HPLC/LC-MS 0.45µm Standard HPLC / LC-MS sample prep Routine clarification, fine particle removal, protecting HPLC columns (the standard pore size for most HPLC/LC-MS workflows) ≥1.0µm Prefiltration, high particulate samples Environmental water, food extracts, first-stage filtration before 0.22/0.45µm filters Quick tip : Using 0.45µm for routine HPLC is efficient; using 0.22µm for the same slows filtration without benefit. Reserve 0.22µm for sterile work. Standard Laboratory Filtration Workflows (HPLC & LC-MS) HPLC Sample Preparation Workflow Typical HPLC sample preparation follows a standardised sequence to ensure chromatographic consistency: Sample collection and dilution (if required) Optional centrifugation for coarse particle removal Syringe filtration (0.45µm recommended) Transfer to HPLC vial for injection LC-MS Biological Sample Workflow LC-MS workflows require higher sensitivity and lower background noise: Protein precipitation (acetonitrile or methanol) Centrifugation to remove precipitated proteins PES syringe filtration (0.22µm sterile preferred) Injection into LC-MS system Environmental and High-Particulate Sample Workflow For samples containing suspended solids or complex matrices: Coarse filtration or sediment settling Glass fiber prefiltration (1.0µm) Secondary syringe filtration (0.45µm or 0.22µm) Industry Insight : Standardised filtration workflows reduce analytical variability and improve inter-laboratory reproducibility, especially in regulated pharmaceutical and environmental testing environments. Not sure where to start? Default safe choices Routine HPLC (aqueous/organic mixed samples) – PVDF 0.45µm (versatile, cost-effective, wide compatibility) LC-MS biological samples (proteins, peptides) – PES 0.22µm sterile (ultra-low binding, sterility, maximum recovery) Pure organic solvents (acetonitrile, methanol) – Hydrophobic PTFE 0.45µm (no pre-wetting needed for organics, superior chemical resistance) Unknown sample or flexible workflows – PVDF 0.45µm (safe default, minimal risk of incompatibility) Best Syringe Filter by Application Application (Best X for Y) Best Syringe Filter Pore Size Best for HPLC Sample Preparation Nylon / PVDF 0.45µm Best for LC-MS Analysis Hydrophilic PTFE / PES 0.22 / 0.45µm Best for Protein & Biological Samples PES / CA 0.22 / 0.45µm Best for Organic Solvents PTFE (Hydrophobic) 0.45µm Best for Harsh Chemical Samples PTFE / PP 0.45µm Best for Sterile Filtration (Cell Culture) Sterile PES / MCE 0.22µm (sterile) Best for High Particulate Samples GF Prefilter + Membrane 1.0µm + 0.45/0.22µm Fast Selection Matrix (For Procurement and Lab Standardisation) Application Recommended Filter Type Pore Size Recommendation LC-MS biological samples (proteins, peptides) PES / PVDF 0.22 (sterile) / 0.45µm General HPLC (aqueous/organic mixed samples) Nylon / PVDF 0.45µm Pure organic solvents (acetonitrile, methanol) PTFE (Hydrophobic) 0.45µm LC-MS gradient mobile phases Hydrophilic PTFE / PVDF 0.22 / 0.45µm Sterile filtration (cell culture, buffers) Sterile PES / MCE 0.22µm (sterile) High particulate samples (environmental, food) GF prefilter + membrane 1.0 + 0.45/0.22µm Protein/enzyme solutions PES / CA 0.22 / 0.45µm Aggressive chemical samples (strong acids/bases) PTFE / PP 0.45µm Size note: 13mm filters for ≤10mL; 25mm filters for 10–50mL; >50mL consider vacuum filtration. Syringe Filter Comparison 1. PES vs PVDF PES : Best for protein recovery (ultra-low binding), ideal for aqueous & mild organics, perfect for LC-MS bioanalysis. PVDF : More versatile for mixed aqueous-organic systems, flexible workflows, better for HPLC and varying sample types. Choose PES for protein recovery; PVDF for versatility. 2. PTFE vs Nylon PTFE : Superior chemical resistance, handles pure organics & strong acids/bases, best for harsh HPLC solvent systems. Nylon : Cost-effective for routine HPLC, broad solvent compatibility, ideal for non-critical applications. Choose PTFE for harsh chemicals; Nylon for routine, low-cost filtration. 3. 0.22µm vs 0.45µm 0.22µm : Sterilisation, bacteria removal (slower filtration), required for sterile workflows. 0.45µm : Routine HPLC/LC-MS clarification (faster, efficient), standard for most non-sterile applications. Choose 0.22µm for sterility; 0.45µm for routine analysis. 4. Hydrophilic vs Hydrophobic PTFE Hydrophilic PTFE : Universal (aqueous + organic), no pre-wetting needed, ideal for LC-MS gradients and mixed solvent systems. Hydrophobic PTFE : Pure organics only, requires pre-wetting with methanol for aqueous use, best for HPLC organic mobile phases. Choose Hydrophilic PTFE for mixed systems; Hydrophobic for pure organics. Common Selection Errors That Increase Cost Error Consequence Wrong membrane material Degradation, sample loss, contamination, invalid HPLC/LC-MS results Ignoring protein binding (e.g., Nylon for protein samples) Poor sample recovery, method failure, inconsistent LC-MS results Skipping prefiltration for high-particulate samples Frequent clogging, inconsistent flow, increased filter consumption Wrong pore size (0.22µm for routine HPLC) Wasted time (slower filtration) or sterility failure Overlooking sterility for cell culture/pharmaceutical QC Cross-contamination, compliance issues, invalid GMP data What Happens When You Choose the Wrong Syringe Filter? Incorrect syringe filter selection does not only reduce efficiency, it can directly compromise analytical data quality and instrument performance in HPLC and LC-MS systems. Chromatographic Distortion Particles not removed during filtration can enter the HPLC system, causing peak broadening, tailing, and retention time shifts. These effects reduce method reproducibility and analytical confidence. Increased Column Backpressure Accumulated particulate matter gradually blocks the column inlet frit, increasing system backpressure. This leads to reduced column lifespan and higher maintenance costs. LC-MS Signal Instability Improper membrane selection may introduce extractables or adsorb analytes, resulting in ion suppression, unstable baselines, and reduced sensitivity in mass spectrometric detection. Sample Loss and Low Recovery High protein-binding membranes such as nylon can reduce analyte concentration in biological samples, leading to inaccurate quantification results. Practical Insight: Most “mysterious data variability” in HPLC/LC-MS is not instrument-related, it originates from inconsistent or inappropriate sample filtration. Why Standardising Syringe Filters Improves Lab Efficiency Laboratories that standardise their syringe filter selection see significant improvements: More consistent analytical results (reduces variability in HPLC/LC-MS data) Reduced instrument downtime (prevents column damage from particulate buildup) Lower long-term consumable cost (bulk procurement, reduced waste) Simplified procurement decisions (fewer SKUs to manage) Easier training for new lab staff (standardised protocols) Critical for: Pharmaceutical QC labs, contract testing labs, environmental analysis labs, and any lab with high-volume HPLC/LC-MS workflows. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) What is a PES syringe filter used for? PES syringe filters are used for aqueous and biological sample filtration, including HPLC, cell culture media, and pharmaceutical applications. They are ideal for LC-MS bioanalysis due to their ultra-low protein binding. What is the difference between PES and PTFE syringe filters? PES is hydrophilic and ideal for water-based solutions, biological samples, and mild organics. PTFE is hydrophobic (or hydrophilic for mixed systems) and used for organic solvents, strong acids/bases, and aggressive chemical systems. Are PES syringe filters suitable for sterile filtration? Yes, sterile PES syringe filters are widely used for cell culture and biological sterilisation applications, as they offer ultra-low protein binding and gamma sterilisation (SAL 10 -6 ). Do PES filters bind proteins? No. PES has ultra-low protein binding, making it ideal for sensitive biological samples and LC-MS applications where maximum protein recovery is critical. What pore size should I choose for HPLC/LC-MS? 0.22µm – Sterile filtration (cell culture, pharmaceutical QC); 0.45µm – General HPLC/LC-MS clarification (standard pore size); 1.0µm – Pre-filtration for high-particulate samples. Are syringe filters reusable? No. Syringe filters are designed for single-use to prevent cross-contamination and ensure consistent, reliable results in HPLC and LC-MS applications. Final Recommendation Choosing the correct syringe filter is not a matter of preference – it is a critical step in ensuring accurate, reliable analytical results for HPLC, LC-MS, and other laboratory applications. The key to success is: Matching membrane chemistry to your sample type Selecting the correct pore size based on your method’s requirements Optimising your filtration workflow (e.g., using prefilters for high-particulate samples) Standardising your filter selection to improve consistency and reduce costs If you’re running HPLC, LC-MS, or biological analysis , your filtration step should be standardised, not improvised – this guide provides all the tools you need to make confident, cost-effective choices.
Slice Capsules
Embedding Samples with Slice Capsules (EMS71189) 1. Close the cover, then pour resin into the capsule until half full 2. After the resin solidifies, a half block forms 3. Place the ACLAR film containing flat embedding samples on the glass slide 4. Drop a small amount of resin on the samples 5. Place the half block on the samples, then place a label in the capsules 6. Pour more resin into and fill the slice capsules