Naturally Hydrophilic PAN Membrane from Sterlitech Delivers Enhanced Flowrates

 With its latest polyacrylonitrile (PAN) membrane, Sterlitech Corporation offers a hydrophilic filter that does not sacrifice selectivity to achieve faster flow rates in comparison to nylon or polyethersulfone (PES).  Its unique nanofiber mesh construction combines extremely fine pores with significant open space to allow easy liquid flow while trapping particulates as small as 0.2 micron in width. “This technology is already in use for water filtration in applications where low energy is required,” said Sterlitech President Mark Spatz.  “We are excited to introduce this technology at Sterlitech because we know it has a place in laboratories or small-batch processes where its uniquely high flux is an asset.” This novel membrane’s performance is attributed to its unique construction.

It is created by extruding extremely fine PAN nanofibers onto a polyethylene support substrate, to form a tight mesh that filters out particles, colloids, and bacteria larger than 0.2 micron.  The mesh also has a relatively open structure that allows water or aqueous solutions to pass through quickly with very little applied pressure. Sterlitech’s PAN membrane combines excellent selectivity, high flowrates and low pressure requirements which help laboratories simplify their filtration setups while maintaining quality and efficient workflow.  They will be offered as filter disks, pre-cut in a number of standard sizes or as sample sheets for customers to cut into custom sizes.