Let’s Dive into Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100
I’ve spent years in the field, from setting up remote research camps to advising on water purification strategies for disaster relief. And let me tell you, reliable filtration is absolutely critical. When I saw the Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100, I knew I had to get my hands on it for a rigorous assessment.
For years, I’ve relied on various filter papers for everything from simple coffee brewing during expeditions to more critical tasks like clarifying water samples for analysis. Often, the inconsistency and fragility of available papers proved to be a constant source of frustration. My primary needs were simple: a filter paper strong enough to handle decent volumes, consistent pore size for reliable particulate retention, and readily available in bulk.
The Whatman filter paper arrived in a sturdy, no-frills package – precisely what I expect from a product focused on utility. Right out of the box, the thickness and texture of the Sharkskin paper were noticeably different from standard lab filters I’d used before. It felt more robust, more reliable.
Compared to thinner, less expensive cellulose filters, the Whatman Sharkskin paper felt significantly more durable. Against a higher-end, specialized glass microfiber filter, the Sharkskin paper traded some absolute precision for increased overall robustness and a lower price point. It seemed like a calculated balance of performance and value.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 looked and felt like a product designed for real-world use, not just sterile laboratory conditions. I was excited to see how it would perform under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved using the Whatman Sharkskin filter paper to pre-filter water from a heavily silted river during a wilderness survival skills course I was teaching. The paper was folded into a cone and supported by a simple wire frame I fashioned.
The Sharkskin paper handled a surprisingly large volume of water before clogging, significantly outperforming the standard coffee filters my students were using. Even when damp, the paper maintained its structural integrity and did not tear or disintegrate, a common problem I’ve encountered with cheaper alternatives. This immediately impressed me.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, I observed that the Whatman Sharkskin paper consistently provided reliable filtration. Whether I was straining sediment from collected rainwater, clarifying muddy water samples, or even filtering cooking oil in a pinch, the paper held up remarkably well.
The Sharkskin paper showed minimal signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to repeated folding, wetting, and exposure to various contaminants. Cleaning was a breeze; simply rinsing the used filter with clean water removed most of the particulate matter. Compared to my past experiences with thinner, weaker filters, the Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 proved to be a clear winner in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100
Specifications
The Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 is defined by several key specifications. The Manufacturer, Whatman, is well-known for its high-quality laboratory filtration products.
Diameter: 50.0 cm. This large diameter is excellent for high-volume filtration.
Whatman No.: 10347525. This number is the specific identifier for this particular product.
Unit: Pack of 100. This is a bulk pack, providing ample supply for frequent use.
Porosity: Medium. This indicates the average pore size, suitable for a wide range of filtration tasks.
Flow Rate: Medium. This balanced flow rate avoids both excessively slow filtration and reduced particulate retention.
Particle Retention: 8–12 µm. This describes the size of particles that the filter is designed to capture, generally considered medium-fine.
These specifications are important because they dictate the paper’s suitability for various filtration tasks. The medium porosity and flow rate make it a versatile option, while the relatively high particle retention ensures efficient removal of suspended solids. The Sharkskin name and texture also implies a sturdier and higher wet-strength product, allowing for higher flow rates without tearing.
Performance & Functionality
The Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 excels at general-purpose filtration. Its key strengths lie in its durability and consistent particulate retention.
While not designed for ultra-fine filtration, it effectively removes most visible particulate matter from liquids. The Sharkskin paper’s performance met and exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sharkskin paper features a creped texture which gives it enhanced surface area. This feature allows for faster and more efficient filtration.
The robust construction of the Sharkskin paper makes it easy to handle without tearing. There’s no real learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The high wet-strength of the Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 ensures its longevity. I expect each sheet to hold up under significant use.
Maintenance is minimal: simple rinsing is often sufficient for reuse in less critical applications. The strength of the paper also lends itself to less tearing when wet than thinner alternatives.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 comes as a pack of pre-cut circles. There are no specific accessories, but it can be easily adapted to various filtration setups.
It is compatible with standard filtration funnels, Buchner funnels, and homemade filtration systems. It does what it needs to do and is easily adapted to different situations.
Pros and Cons of Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The Sharkskin paper withstands repeated use and resists tearing, even when wet.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of filtration tasks, from water purification to sample preparation.
- Consistent Performance: Provides reliable particulate retention with a medium porosity.
- High Volume Filtration: The 50cm diameter allows for filtering large quantities of liquids efficiently.
- Value for Money: The pack of 100 offers an economical solution for frequent users.
Cons
- Not for Ultra-Fine Filtration: The medium porosity isn’t suitable for applications requiring the removal of extremely small particles.
- No Specific Accessories: Requires adapting to existing filtration setups.
Who Should Buy Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100?
The Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 is perfect for researchers, environmental scientists, preppers and survivalists, and anyone needing reliable, medium-grade filtration. It is also ideal for those working in remote field settings where durability and ease of use are paramount.
Individuals requiring ultra-fine filtration for sensitive laboratory analyses should skip this product. Someone needing to filter bacterial contaminants will also need smaller pore sizes.
Must-have accessories include filtration funnels and support structures. For critical applications, consider using a vacuum filtration system to increase flow rate.
Conclusion on Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100
The Whatman Sharkskin General-Purpose Filter Paper, Whatman 10347525, Pack of 100 is a robust and versatile filtration solution that delivers exceptional value. The price of $179.99 is justified by its durability, consistent performance, and wide range of applications.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone in need of a reliable, general-purpose filter paper. It’s a dependable workhorse that won’t let you down in the field or the lab. If you need a reliable solution for filtering water, clarifying samples, or any other general-purpose task, grab a pack of Whatman Sharkskin paper – you won’t regret it!