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Filtration
Filtration removes particles, cells or microorganisms from a liquid. The membrane material and pore size decide what gets through and what sticks to the filter along the way.
Pore size by purpose
Larger pores clarify a solution by removing debris. Smaller pores are used when the aim is to remove bacteria as well, which is why sterilising filtration relies on the finest membranes in common use.
Membrane chemistry matters
Different membrane materials bind different amounts of protein and tolerate different solvents. A membrane that works for aqueous buffers may dissolve or bind the sample in other conditions — check compatibility before filtering anything valuable.
Formats
Syringe filters handle small volumes, vacuum units handle larger ones, and spin columns use a centrifuge to push liquid through a membrane or resin — the format behind many extraction kits.