Let’s Dive into Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50
The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50 might not sound like the most exciting piece of gear, but in certain fields, it’s an absolute necessity. Manufactured by Whatman, these blotting pads are designed for laboratory use, specifically in the blotting sandwich process for transferring proteins or nucleic acids. Their smooth, uniform texture and consistent buffer contact make them a critical component for reliable results.
My journey to discovering the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad was driven by a unique need: preserving delicate tactical maps in the field. I needed a robust, absorbent material that wouldn’t disintegrate upon contact with moisture, and after some research, these blotting pads kept appearing in forums related to archival conservation. Initially, the idea seemed a bit unorthodox, but the specifications were quite intriguing.
Upon unboxing the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50, my first impression was the substantial thickness and quality of the paper. The pads felt incredibly dense, with a weight that suggested high absorbency. Compared to standard paper towels or even archival papers I’ve used, these felt significantly more robust and less prone to tearing.
Having previously used standard lab filter paper and even high-quality paper towels for similar tasks, the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad felt like a significant upgrade. Standard filter paper tends to be too thin and delicate for repeated handling, while paper towels often leave lint and inconsistent textures. The Whatman pads promised a cleaner, more consistent surface.
My initial excitement stemmed from the potential applications beyond the lab. The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad seemed like an ideal solution for protecting sensitive documents in humid environments or even as a cushioning material for delicate equipment. I was eager to put them to the test in a variety of real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994 during a week-long backcountry navigation exercise in the Pacific Northwest. This region is known for its persistent rain and high humidity, making it an ideal environment to test the pad’s protective capabilities. I used the pads to wrap my paper maps, protecting them from moisture and physical damage within my map case.
The pads performed exceptionally well in the wet conditions. Even after prolonged exposure to humidity and occasional light rain, the maps remained dry and legible. The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad absorbed moisture effectively, preventing the ink from running or smudging.
The pads were remarkably easy to use straight out of the pack. I simply folded them around the maps and secured them with rubber bands. Their thickness provided a noticeable layer of cushioning, protecting the maps from creases and tears.
Initially, I was concerned that the pads might become waterlogged and heavy, but they maintained their structural integrity throughout the exercise. This exceeded my expectations, as paper towels would have disintegrated after a few hours in similar conditions. The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad showed no signs of falling apart.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use in various outdoor activities, the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. I’ve used them for everything from protecting maps during kayaking trips to cushioning fragile electronics in my camera bag. The pads have consistently performed without fail.
The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated use and exposure to harsh conditions. Unlike paper towels or thinner blotting papers, the pads haven’t torn or frayed. Their resilience is a testament to the high-quality cotton fiber construction.
Maintenance is incredibly simple: if the pads become excessively soiled, I simply replace them with a fresh one from the pack. Given the pack of 50, I have plenty available for different applications. The relatively low cost per pad makes them a practical and economical solution for various protective needs.
Compared to my previous experiences with makeshift protective materials, the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad outperforms significantly. They offer superior absorbency, durability, and consistent performance. I no longer have to worry about my maps becoming ruined or my equipment being damaged by moisture or impact.
Breaking Down the Features of Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50
Specifications
The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance:
- Size: 11 x 18 cm. The dimensions are ideal for a range of applications, including standard-sized maps and documents.
- Unit: Pack of 50. The pack size ensures a long-lasting supply for various tasks.
- Weight: 703 g/m2. The high weight indicates a dense and absorbent material.
- Thickness: 2.60 mm. The thickness provides cushioning and protection against physical damage.
- Hertzberg Flow Rate: 120 sec./100 mL at 10 cm head of water. This measures the water absorbency rate, demonstrating the pad’s ability to quickly absorb liquids.
- Klemm Wicking Rate Test: 96 sec./7.5 cm rise. The wicking rate further confirms the material’s effective liquid handling capability.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad’s ability to perform its intended functions. The high weight and thickness provide both cushioning and absorbency, while the flow and wicking rates ensure rapid liquid uptake. These factors translate to reliable protection for sensitive materials.
Performance & Functionality
The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50 excels at its intended job of providing a consistent, absorbent buffer for laboratory applications. However, its performance translates well to a variety of other scenarios. From protecting maps in the field to cushioning sensitive equipment, the pad performs admirably.
The main strength of the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad lies in its impressive absorbency and durability. The pad quickly absorbs liquids, preventing damage to surrounding materials. Its thickness provides a substantial barrier against physical impact.
One potential weakness might be its size limitations for larger applications. However, this is easily addressed by using multiple pads or cutting them to the desired dimensions. Overall, the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad far exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad is simple yet effective. Made of 100% cotton fiber produced using ultrapure water without additives, the material feels smooth and uniform. The absence of additives ensures it won’t contaminate sensitive samples or materials.
The pads are lightweight and easy to handle, despite their substantial thickness. There is virtually no learning curve: simply unpack and use. The pads’ straightforward design makes them incredibly versatile.
Durability & Maintenance
The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad is designed for long-lasting performance. The high-quality cotton fiber construction resists tearing and fraying, even with repeated use. With proper care and occasional replacement, a single pack can last a significant amount of time.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad are disposable and easily replaced. Their affordability makes regular replacement a practical solution.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50 does not come with any specific accessories. Their versatility allows for a range of customization options, such as cutting them to specific sizes or layering them for increased protection. Users can also combine the pads with other protective materials, such as waterproof bags or hard cases.
The pads are compatible with a variety of accessories from other brands. For instance, combining the pads with a Rite in the Rain notebook can provide complete protection for handwritten notes in wet environments. Likewise, using the pads as cushioning inside a Pelican case can protect sensitive electronics from both moisture and impact.
Pros and Cons of Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50
Pros
- Exceptional Absorbency: Quickly wicks away moisture, protecting sensitive materials.
- High Durability: Resists tearing and fraying, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Consistent Texture: Provides a uniform surface for reliable results.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for both laboratory use and various outdoor activities.
- Economical: Affordable price per pad makes them a practical solution.
Cons
- Size limitations: May require multiple pads or cutting for larger applications.
- Not waterproof: Requires additional waterproofing for full submersion scenarios.
Who Should Buy Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50?
The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50 are perfect for: laboratory technicians, researchers, archivists, map enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone needing reliable protection for documents or sensitive equipment. Individuals working in humid or wet environments will especially appreciate their moisture-wicking capabilities.
Those seeking a fully waterproof solution should consider other options or combine the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad with waterproof bags or cases. If extreme durability or resistance to tearing is the primary concern, there may be other, albeit more expensive, materials.
A must-have accessory is a reliable map case for outdoor use. Rite in the Rain notebooks or paper offer a synergistic combination for complete protection. Similarly, using the pads in conjunction with Pelican cases can protect sensitive electronics during transport.
Conclusion on Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50
The Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50 is a surprisingly versatile product that exceeds expectations in both laboratory and field applications. Their exceptional absorbency, durability, and consistent texture make them a valuable asset for protecting sensitive materials.
At $149.99, the price is justified by the quality and performance of the pads. The pack of 50 ensures a long-lasting supply, making them a cost-effective solution for a range of needs.
I would highly recommend the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad to anyone seeking reliable protection for maps, documents, or sensitive equipment. Whether you’re a researcher, outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who values preserving important items, these pads offer exceptional value. Invest in the Whatman Grade 707 Blotting Pad 28297-994, Pack of 50 and experience the peace of mind that comes with superior protection!