The syringe filter body may be made of such materials as polypropylene and nylon.
The filter membrane may be of PTFE, nylon, or other treated products for specific purposes.
Syringe filters may be used to remove particles from a sample, prior to analysis by HPLC or other techniques involving expensive instruments.
Particles easily damage an HPLC due to the narrow bore and high pressures within.
Being relatively affordable, they may be used for general purpose filtration, especially of smaller volumes where losses by soaking up filter paper are significant.