membrane filter
- noun
- /ˈmɛmˌbreɪn ˈfɪltər/
- Specialized
- In the laboratory, we used a membrane filter to separate the microorganisms from the water sample before testing.
- using the membrane filter
Examples
-
Samples testing positive for coliform bacteria were then cultured for the presence of E. coli bacteria by immediate transfer of the membrane filter to a separate petri dish with NA-MUG culture media.
Academic text (2005) -
In one outbreak, nitrate levels exceeded maximum limits even though a reverse-osmosis membrane filter had reduced levels in the water source (Moore et al., 1993).
Academic text (2002) -
The second method uses a hydrophobic (water-repelling) grid printed on a membrane filter.
Academic text (2006) -
Water samples were filtered through a membrane filter by a battery-powered vacuum pump that was set for a pressure of 15 inches Hg.
Academic text (2010) -
The coliform analyses were done using the membrane filter method with m-Endo broth and incubated for 24 hours.
Academic text (1998) -
The generators include a 0.01 micron membrane filter that ensures the nitrogen supply is completely free of suspended impurities.
Academic text (2005) -
Analysis for total coliform bacteria involved filtration of 100 mL of sample through a membrane filter with a hand-filtration apparatus to capture bacteria.
Academic text (2005) -
The membrane filters were placed on petri dishes with m-Endo growth media and incubated at 35°C for 22-26 hours.
Academic text (2005) -
Ten milliliters of lake water were placed in 90 mL of sterile water and filtered via vacuum filtration through sterile 0.45-m membrane filters.
Academic text (2005) -
Waxahachie and its partner, Rockett Special Utility District, are taking bids for a new water treatment plant that, at least initially, will have four filtration trains using Memcor membrane filters from Siemens Water Technologies.
Academic text (2007)
Synonyms
A thing that removes unwanted parts from water, air, light and sound
How Fine
- Specialized
- Specialized
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly compositional: a 'membrane filter' is simply a filter that is made from or uses a membrane (a thin semi-permeable layer) to remove particles. This noun+noun compound follows common English formation patterns and is likely to be understood by a B1 learner who knows both 'membrane' and 'filter', with similar constructions in other languages reinforcing its transparency.
Etymology
Membrane filter comes from the words membrane meaning a thin 'skin' and filter meaning 'something that keeps unwanted parts out'. Imagine a very thin skin with tiny holes that lets liquid pass but holds back dirt and germs, so the term means 'a thin film used to catch particles or microorganisms'.