Let’s Dive into Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100
The Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100 might seem like an unassuming lab supply, but trust me, for those of us who spend a lot of time outdoors, its versatility is a game-changer. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill coffee filter; this is industrial-grade cellulose paper designed for serious filtration, and it comes from the trusted brand Whatman. This particular pack gives you 100 circles of 5.5 cm diameter filter paper.
My interest in this product came from a need for reliable water filtration in the field. I was tired of carrying bulky water filters, and I needed a lightweight, packable solution for pre-filtering water before using my purification tablets. The advertised pure cellulose and absence of binders caught my eye, promising clean and reliable filtration without leaching any unwanted chemicals into my water source.
Upon receiving the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, my initial impression was one of simple functionality. The papers are thin, yet surprisingly strong for their size, and the uniform texture speaks to their quality. Compared to using a bandana or cloth for pre-filtering, this seemed like a significant upgrade in terms of purity and filtration effectiveness.
I initially considered other options, such as cheaper generic filter papers or even reusable cloth filters. Ultimately, I chose the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper for its reputation for purity and the peace of mind that comes with knowing I’m using a product designed for lab use. My initial feeling was optimistic; these seemed like a serious tool ready for serious work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper was during a backcountry camping trip in the Cascade Mountains. Water sources were plentiful, but often silty with glacial runoff. I used the filter paper to pre-filter water collected from a stream before treating it with iodine tablets.
The paper performed admirably, removing a significant amount of sediment and debris that would have otherwise ended up in my drinking water. While the slow flow rate initially concerned me (as per the product specifications), it was a worthwhile trade-off for the noticeably cleaner water. It took a little patience, but I avoided drinking gritty water.
The paper held up well even when damp, and I experienced no tearing or disintegration during filtration. One slight issue was the small size of the filter paper, requiring multiple sheets to filter larger volumes of water. Despite this, the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper provided a much cleaner starting point for water purification compared to simply using a cloth.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use on various camping trips and even during a primitive skills course, the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper has proven to be a reliable addition to my kit. I’ve used it for everything from filtering water to straining sediment from wild-harvested teas. It has even served as a makeshift bandage in a pinch.
The paper shows no signs of degradation even after being stored in my pack for extended periods. As long as the papers are kept dry, they maintain their integrity and filtration effectiveness. Minimal maintenance is required; simply discard the used filter paper after each use.
Compared to previous attempts at DIY filtration using coffee filters or cheesecloth, the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper consistently delivers superior performance. The 2.5 µm particle retention is noticeable, producing cleaner and clearer water. It’s a more reliable and predictable filtration method than relying on improvised materials.
Breaking Down the Features of Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100
Specifications
The Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100 boasts several key specifications that make it a useful tool. The 5.5 cm diameter circles are convenient for smaller filtration tasks, although larger sizes would be preferable for bulk water processing. As stated before, the 2.5 µm particle retention signifies its ability to remove fine particles.
The specified slow flow rate is a direct result of the fine porosity, balancing speed with filtration efficiency. The pack contains 100 sheets, providing a substantial supply for extended use. Notably, the pure cellulose composition ensures no unwanted additives contaminate the filtered liquid, especially crucial for potable water.
These specifications translate to reliable and consistent filtration. The fine porosity removes a good amount of sediment, the quantity ensures ample supply, and the pure cellulose is crucial for safety and cleanliness. The slow flow rate might require some planning, but the purity and filtration quality make up for it.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper is, of course, filtration, and it excels in this role. Its ability to remove fine particles from liquids makes it invaluable for pre-filtering water or clarifying other liquids. It is simple to use.
The main strength is its consistent and reliable filtration performance. A significant weakness is its limited size; a larger diameter option would improve usability for larger volumes. It largely meets my expectations and outperforms improvised filtration methods.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple: circular filter paper. The thinness and flexibility make it easy to fold and fit into various filtration devices or funnels. The paper is lightweight, making it convenient to carry in a backpack or survival kit.
The lack of any specialized features makes it universally user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve; anyone can immediately understand and utilize it effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its intended use, durability isn’t a primary concern, but the paper is surprisingly resilient when wet. It is designed to be disposable, so maintenance is nonexistent. Under normal conditions, it should last indefinitely if kept dry and stored properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of filtration devices and funnels. It can be easily incorporated into existing water filtration systems or used in conjunction with DIY filtration setups.
You can customize its use by folding it into different shapes to increase surface area or combining multiple sheets for increased filtration efficiency. Since it’s standard filter paper, it fits nearly any lab or field filtration setup.
Pros and Cons of Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100
Pros
- Excellent Filtration: The 2.5 µm particle retention provides genuinely clean filtration, removing fine sediments that other methods miss.
- Pure Cellulose: The absence of binders or resins ensures that no unwanted chemicals leach into the filtered liquid, especially vital for water purification.
- Lightweight & Packable: The Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper adds virtually no weight or bulk to a pack, making it ideal for backpacking and survival kits.
- Versatile Use: Beyond water filtration, it can be used for clarifying liquids, straining teas, or even as a makeshift bandage.
- Trusted Brand: Whatman is a reputable name in laboratory supplies, guaranteeing a high standard of quality and consistency.
Cons
- Slow Flow Rate: The fine porosity results in a slower filtration rate, requiring patience and potentially multiple filter papers for larger volumes.
- Small Size: The 5.5 cm diameter is adequate for small tasks, but larger diameter options would improve usability for bulk filtration.
Who Should Buy Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100?
This product is perfect for backpackers, survivalists, and anyone who needs a lightweight and reliable method for pre-filtering water in the field. It’s also excellent for amateur brewers, herbalists, and anyone needing to filter small batches of liquids. Campers preparing coffee or tea will find it useful too.
This product might not be ideal for those needing to filter large quantities of liquid quickly. It also may not be the right choice for someone looking for a complete, all-in-one water filtration system.
A must-have accessory would be a small, lightweight funnel or filtration device to help support the filter paper and streamline the filtration process. A durable, waterproof container to store the unused filter papers is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100
Overall, the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper, Whatman 1005-055, Pack of 100 is an invaluable addition to any outdoor or survival kit. Its exceptional filtration capabilities, pure cellulose composition, and lightweight design make it a versatile and reliable tool. Despite the slow flow rate and small size, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
At around $36, the price is justified by the quality, reliability, and peace of mind it provides. I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone seeking a simple, effective, and packable filtration solution. Add the Whatman Grade No. 5 Filter Paper to your kit today and experience the difference clean filtration can make!