Microbiology filtration

Different microbiological testing applications have different target microorganisms; using a membrane filter that is both suitable for your target and of high quality is critical to success. Use this guide to determine the right membrane for your application.

Whether your lab runs a few microbiological tests a day, or into the hundreds, your selection of membrane filters and testing equipment can greatly affect efficiency, accuracy and the reliability of your results.

The membrane filter is central, but don’t forget the hardware! In high-throughput labs, for example, a sturdy membrane dispenser can save you time, and make your lab-life easier. Manifolds, funnels, even connectors — all can contribute to the smooth running of your microbiology lab.

What is your application?	Typically used	What products should you choose?
Coliforms E. coli Enterobacter sp. Enterococcus sp. Pseudomonas sp. total aerobic microbial counts	0.45 µm; white Additional options selected based on growth medium, colony color and organism size: 0.2 µm, black or green	ME25/21 (mce) 0.45 µm ME24/21 (mce) 0.2 µm
Legionella sp.	0.45 µm black 0.2 µm pcte	ME 25/21 (mce) 0.45 µm Polycarbonate track-etched 0.2 µm
Recreational water testing	0.45 µm white 0.45 µm pcte	0.45 µm white 0.45 µm pcte
Direct cell count / staining	pcte membrane	Polycarbonate track-etched
Beverage monitoring yeast and mold	0.45 µm white or black Additional options selected based on growth medium, colony color and organism size: 0.8, 1.2 µm, green	ME (mce) membrane filters
Purified water system	0.2 µm , 0.45 µm white	ME (mce Membrane Filters)
Hardware	Based on workflow preferences	eButler membrane dispenser MBS I Microbiology System Glass Filter Funnels Stainless steel Funnels and Manifolds Accessories tweezers Suction flask Witts flask Vacu-guard 3-, 6-place standard manifolds AS300, AS 600 vacuum manifold assemblies