Which filter type can achieve 100% sterility?

The choice of the Millipore filter with a pore size of 0.22 micrometers is recognized for its ability to achieve near-complete sterility, primarily because it is effective at removing bacteria and larger microorganisms from a liquid or gas. Filters with a pore size of 0.22 micrometers are widely used for sterilizing heat-sensitive solutions in microbiology and pharmaceutical applications because they are designed specifically to retain bacteria, yeast, and protozoa.

When assessing filter types, it’s important to consider the intended application and the specific properties of the filters. The 0.5 micrometer Millipore filter, while useful for particulate matter and some microorganisms, is not as effective at achieving complete sterility compared to the 0.22 micrometer filter. The Seitz filter is known for its effectiveness in certain applications but may not guarantee 100% sterility like the finer Millipore filter can in most standard laboratory conditions.

In summary, the Millipore filter with a 0.22 micrometer pore size is the industry standard for achieving sterility in laboratory settings, providing confidence that bacteria and other microorganisms have been effectively removed from the filtered substance.