Aluminum-coated PET membrane

for microplastic analysis

Aluminum-coated membranes are used to identify and characterize micro- and nanoparticles in natural waterways, marine life, and in consumer products such as mineral water and other beverages. Concerns about the possible environmental and toxicological effects of these pollutants are growing and have become a major concern worldwide.

i3 TrackPor PA i3 TrackPor PAR

A aluminum-coated membrane held by a pair of tweezers

Optimum illumination increases particle contrast

The high particle contrast between the smooth filter surface and the particles in the dark field can be optimally exploited by using the aluminum coating on the polyester membranes. For example, the aluminum coating shows less fluorescence in the infrared spectrum than the gold membranes. As a result, the intensity of the spectra of the particles is amplified and they can thus be better detected, since “overexposure” is prevented.

High stability over a long filtration period

The i3 TrackPor PA membranes are characterized by a particularly smooth and even surface. The polyester membrane (PET) with an aluminum layer of 100/0 nm makes filtration possible for all organic and inorganic particles. The i3 TrackPor PA track-etched filters are stable in the liquid medium over a long filtration period. They provide optimum reflection in Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) microscopy and LDIR microscopy and form a suitable conductive substrate for imaging in the scanning electron microscope (EDX/WDX).
In order to stabilize the aluminum-coated polyester membranes in the filtration and analysis phase the filters can be provided with an aluminum ring.

i3 TrackPor PA

Request an offer

Our aluminum-coated polyester membrane (PET) i3 TrackPor PA can be purchased in all standard diameters from 13 to 47 millimeters and pore sizes from 0.8 to 5 micrometers.

Special customizations are also possible on request.

Reflective aluminum layer for optimal illumination intensity
Stable over a long filtration period
Suitable for applications in the pH scale from 4 to 8
Significantly more cost-effective than comparable membranes with gold coating

Attribute
Pore size*	0.8 µm	3.0 µm	5.0 µm
Membrane material	Polyester
Pore density (cm^-2)	4.00 E + 07	3.00 E + 06	4.00 E + 05
Membrane thickness (µm)	22	20	19
Aluminum coating** (nm)	100/0
Diameter (mm)	13 / 25 / 30 / 37 / 45 / 47

*other pore sizes available on request
**top/bottom

i3 TrackPor PAR

Angled view of a aluminum-coated membrane assembled in an aluminum ring

Request an offer

Our aluminum-coated polyester membrane (PET) i3 TrackPor PAR is additionally framed in an aluminum ring. This makes it much easier to handle. The membrane cannot be scratched or bent and it is easier to use for vacuum filtration.

Special customizations are also possible on request.

Reflective aluminum layer for optimal illumination intensity
Stable over a long filtration period
Suitable for applications in the pH scale from 4 to 8
In an aluminum ring for easier handling

Data sheet

Attribute
Pore size*	0.8 µm	3.0 µm	5.0 µm
Membrane material	Polyester
Pore density (cm^-2)	4.00 E + 07	3.00 E + 06	4.00 E + 05
Membrane thickness (µm)	22	20	19
Aluminum coating** (nm)	100/0
Diameter (mm)	30