What filter should I use for protein samples?
The short answer: a low-protein-binding membrane—PVDF or PES—to avoid losing analyte to the filter surface.
Quick answer
PVDF and PES are both commonly chosen for protein samples specifically because of their low protein-binding characteristics—an ordinary membrane can adsorb meaningful protein to its surface, especially at low sample volumes where that loss is proportionally larger.
Why this matters more at low concentrations
Protein loss to the membrane surface is a fixed absolute amount regardless of your sample's total protein content—meaning it matters much more, proportionally, for dilute samples than concentrated ones. If you're working at low protein concentration, low-binding membrane choice is worth extra attention.
Confirm with a recovery check
If protein recovery is critical to your result, a quick recovery check with your actual sample and chosen membrane is worth doing before you standardize a method.
See our full material comparison for the fuller picture on PVDF and PES.
Need a more specific recommendation?
Tell us your exact sample and instrument, and we'll confirm the right spec.