Overview of ePTFE Membrane

Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membrane is a versatile filtration material made from PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). ePTFE membrane possesses a microporous structure that allows for high flow rates with excellent particle retention. Key properties and applications of ePTFE membrane include:

• High chemical resistance and temperature tolerance
• Broad compatibility with fluids and gases
• Wide range of porosity and pore size options
• Used for critical filtration in pharmaceutical, biotech, food & beverage, semiconductor industries

DeWAL Industries is a leading manufacturer of ePTFE membranes under the TetraFilt® brand name. DeWAL offers supported and unsupported ePTFE membranes with pore sizes ranging from 0.1 to 10 microns.

DeWAL ePTFE Membrane Products

DeWAL’s TetraFilt® ePTFE membranes are available in multiple configurations:

Product	Description
Supported ePTFE	Composite construction with ePTFE membrane laminated to a polypropylene support layer
Unsupported ePTFE	ePTFE membrane without a support layer
Hydrophilic ePTFE	ePTFE membrane treated to impart hydrophilicity
TetraPak®	Supported ePTFE pleated filter cartridges

TetraFilt® ePTFE membranes offer high flow rates, low extractables, and broad chemical compatibility. They are well-suited for use in critical filtration applications including:

• Sterile filtration of pharmaceuticals and biologics
• Clarification and bioburden reduction in food & beverage
• Purification of chemicals, acids, solvents
• High purity water filtration in semiconductor manufacturing

Benefits of DeWAL ePTFE Membranes

DeWAL ePTFE membranes provide the following advantages:

• High throughput – ePTFE’s microporous structure enables fast flow rates compared to other membrane materials
• Cost-effective – ePTFE membranes minimize process downtime and maximize productivity
• Long service life – Excellent chemical resistance allows extended service intervals
• High particle retention – Precise pore size control ensures retention of particles, microorganisms, or endotoxins
• Low extractables – ePTFE’s inert nature results in minimal leachables or extractables
• Integrity testable – Membranes can be integrity tested to validate removal ratings

With a broad range of products, DeWAL ePTFE membranes are suitable for demanding filtration applications across multiple industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers about DeWAL ePTFE membranes:

Q: What pore sizes are available for DeWAL ePTFE membranes?

A: DeWAL offers a wide range of pore sizes from 0.1 microns to 10 microns for both supported and unsupported ePTFE membranes. This allows you to select the appropriate retention rating for your application.

Q: Can DeWAL’s ePTFE membranes be sterilized?

A: Yes, DeWAL ePTFE membranes are compatible with gamma irradiation, autoclaving, and chemical sterilization methods.

Q: How do I know which ePTFE membrane is best for my application?

A: DeWAL has technical experts available to help recommend the optimal ePTFE membrane based on your filtration requirements, chemical compatibility, operating conditions, and cost targets.

Q: What materials are used for the support layer in DeWAL’s supported ePTFE?

A: The support layers are made from polypropylene which provides excellent chemical resistance and mechanical strength.

Q: Are DeWAL’s ePTFE membranes certified for specific applications?

A: Yes, DeWAL can provide documentation to show compliance with standards for pharmaceutical, food, and semiconductor applications. This includes bio-safety certificates and quality management system certification.