Mixed Cellulose Ester (MCE) Membrane Filters
The standard filter for most aerosol sampling in industrial hygiene applications, mixed cellulose ester (MCE or MEC) membrane filters are comprised of pure, biologically inert mixtures of cellulose acetate and cellulose nitrate. MCE membranes are naturally low in metal background and are compatible with dilute bases and acids and aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons. MCE filters are hydrophilic and autoclavable.
- Meet NIOSH and OSHA method specifications for monitoring airborne metals, and other fibres
- Biologically inert
- Complete dissolution and clearing
- Purity — low artifacts
- Minimal interference in fibre counting
- Standard digestion procedures
- Gridded filters for fibre counting
- Ideal for air monitoring, AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy analysis), ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma analysis) and transmitted light microscopy applications
- NIOSH is using MCE membranes to study nanoparticle morphology and elemental makeup
Airborne Metals — NIOSH 7300, OSHA ID121, 125G
SKC MCE membranes meet NIOSH specifications for the collection and analysis of airborne metals. MCE is easily digested by dilute nitric acid which makes it ideal for atomic absorption spectroscopic analysis. Specifically Part number 225-19 is most commonly used with the IOM and the specifications match those referenced in a significant number of MDHS's.
Asbestos Fibres — NIOSH 7400, OSHA ID160
MCE pore structure collapses when exposed to acetone vapour and offers minimal interferences in fibre counting. This makes it highly suitable for the collection and analysis of asbestos and other fibres. See Preloaded MCE filters for asbestos.
Additional applications include monitoring for some pesticides and fluorides. See the Sampling Solutions for further applications.