Let’s Dive into Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper, Whatman 2200-150, Pack of 100
The Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper, Whatman 2200-150, Pack of 100 represents a specialized tool for anyone needing clean and efficient phase separation. This product from Whatman is designed to easily separate aqueous and hydrophobic phases, a critical function in numerous lab and field applications.
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, my expertise usually lies in survival equipment and field gear. However, many outdoor ventures, especially those involving water quality testing or on-site sample preparation, require a portable and reliable method for phase separation. The promise of a simple, paper-based solution intrigued me, leading me to explore if the Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper could bridge the gap between lab precision and field practicality.
The pack of 100, 15cm diameter sheets arrived neatly packaged. My initial impression was that the paper felt sturdy, with a noticeable difference in texture between the two sides, one side being slightly greasy. This difference immediately suggested a careful design intended to manage liquid separation effectively.
I’ve previously relied on separatory funnels in a lab setting, and attempted makeshift separations in the field using improvised materials, often with messy and incomplete results. Compared to these cumbersome and unreliable methods, the Whatman paper offered a potentially much simpler and cleaner solution. I was genuinely excited to see how well it would perform in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper, Whatman 2200-150, Pack of 100 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place during a water quality assessment trip to a remote mountain stream. I needed to extract any hydrophobic contaminants, such as oils or pesticides, from water samples. I used the Whatman paper in a simple filtration setup with a standard funnel.
The paper’s water repellent side immediately proved its worth, as water quickly filtered through, leaving any oil-based substances neatly separated on the surface. The process was noticeably quicker and less messy than using a separatory funnel, especially given the uneven terrain.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several weeks of repeated testing, the Whatman paper consistently performed as expected. I also experimented with different types of solutions, including soil samples mixed with water to simulate runoff contamination.
The paper showed no signs of degradation or reduced performance, even after prolonged exposure to moisture. Cleaning was also easy: simply discarding the used paper sheet eliminates the need for washing and decontamination, a significant advantage in field settings. Compared to previous attempts at improvised separation, the Whatman paper offered a vastly superior and more reliable solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper, Whatman 2200-150, Pack of 100
Specifications
- Diameter: 15.0 cm. This size is versatile enough for small and medium sample volumes, fitting easily into standard funnels.
- Whatman No.: 2200-150. This identifier helps ensure you’re ordering the correct product, crucial for standardized lab and field procedures.
- Unit: Pack of 100. The pack size offers an excellent balance between quantity and portability, ideal for both lab use and extended field expeditions.
- Porosity: Medium. Medium porosity strikes a good compromise between flow rate and particle retention, suitable for a wide range of sample types.
- Flow Rate: Medium. A medium flow rate ensures efficient filtration without being too slow, which is important when dealing with time-sensitive samples.
- Particle Retention: 11 µm. This specification indicates the size of particles that the paper will effectively retain, ensuring a clear separation of phases and removal of particulate matter.
These specifications highlight the intended use case: separating aqueous and hydrophobic phases while removing particulate matter. The combination of medium porosity and 11 µm particle retention is critical for applications requiring both phase separation and basic filtration.
Performance & Functionality
The Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper performs its primary function flawlessly. It effectively separates water from hydrophobic substances, such as oils, greases, and non-polar solvents.
The paper’s design maximizes the recovery of the light-colored phases typically found in water-buffered solutions. While simple in concept, the Whatman paper significantly streamlines processes that would otherwise require more complex equipment and procedures.
Design & Ergonomics
The Whatman paper is incredibly simple to use. The distinct texture difference between the hydrophobic and uncoated sides ensures correct usage every time.
Its circular shape and standard size make it compatible with virtually any laboratory or field funnel. The light weight and compact nature of the pack of 100 also contribute to its portability and ease of storage.
Durability & Maintenance
The paper itself is intended for single use and disposal. However, it’s surprisingly durable when wet, minimizing the risk of tearing or disintegration during the filtration process.
Maintenance is non-existent, as the paper is discarded after each use. This aspect is a major advantage, especially in field settings where cleaning and decontamination can be challenging.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper is designed to be used with standard laboratory and field equipment. It’s compatible with various funnels, filtration setups, and collection containers.
Because it’s a consumable product, customization options are limited. However, selecting the appropriate funnel size and filtration apparatus can optimize its performance for specific applications.
Pros and Cons of Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper, Whatman 2200-150, Pack of 100
Pros
- Effective Phase Separation: Reliably separates aqueous and hydrophobic phases, ensuring accurate sample collection.
- Ease of Use: Simple design and clear distinction between sides makes it incredibly easy to use, even in field conditions.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, making it ideal for field testing and remote locations.
- Reduced Contamination Risk: Single-use design eliminates the need for cleaning and minimizes the risk of cross-contamination.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of samples and applications, from water quality testing to soil analysis.
Cons
- Limited Volume Capacity: Best suited for small to medium sample volumes; larger volumes may require multiple sheets.
- Price: At $183.99 per pack, it might be considered expensive for high-volume users compared to reusable alternatives (though the convenience factor must be considered).
Who Should Buy Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper, Whatman 2200-150, Pack of 100?
The Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper is perfect for environmental scientists, field researchers, water quality technicians, and anyone requiring reliable phase separation in the field or lab. It’s also well-suited for emergency responders who need to quickly analyze water samples for contaminants.
This product might not be necessary for individuals who primarily work in controlled laboratory environments with access to separatory funnels and other specialized equipment. However, even in labs, the Whatman paper can streamline certain procedures and reduce cleaning time.
A must-have accessory would be a selection of appropriately sized funnels for different sample volumes. Depending on the application, collection containers and graduated cylinders might also be required.
Conclusion on Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper, Whatman 2200-150, Pack of 100
The Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper, Whatman 2200-150, Pack of 100 is a specialized product that delivers exceptional performance in its intended application. Its ease of use, portability, and reliability make it an invaluable tool for field researchers and anyone needing quick and efficient phase separation.
While the price might seem high initially, the convenience, reduced contamination risk, and overall performance justify the cost, especially for those working in remote or challenging environments. The price of $183.99 is justifiable for the performance provided.
I would definitely recommend the Whatman No. 1 PS Water Repellent Phase Separating Paper to anyone involved in environmental testing, field research, or water quality analysis. If you need a reliable and portable solution for phase separation, look no further – this product is a game-changer.