Common filter media: cloth filters used in bioprocessing are generally manufactured from which materials?

Introduction:
Solid–liquid separation is ubiquitous in fermentation and downstream processing. Cloth filters provide mechanical strength, chemical compatibility, and cleanability suitable for diverse broths and slurries. Several materials are used depending on chemical and thermal requirements.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Filter media choices must balance strength, compatibility, and cost.
• Cloth filters span natural and synthetic materials.
• Applications include vacuum filtration, nutsche filters, and pressure leaf filters.

Concept / Approach:
Canvas and other natural fabrics have long been used for coarse separations. Synthetic fabrics (e.g., polypropylene, polyester, nylon) offer superior chemical resistance and consistency. Metal or glass fiber media are used where temperature or solvent resistance is critical, often as woven or felted structures.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: List common cloth filter constituents: canvas, synthetics, and specialized fibers.Step 2: Match to options that enumerate these categories.Step 3: Choose the inclusive option covering all widely used materials.

Verification / Alternative check:
Supplier catalogs and process handbooks show broad offerings across these materials with varying pore sizes and weave patterns.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• canvas; synthetic fabrics; metal or glass fiber: each true but incomplete alone.
• natural rubber: Not a standard cloth medium; rubber is used for seals/gaskets, not woven filter cloth.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming one material suits all processes; solvent exposure and cleaning protocols often dictate media selection.

Final Answer:
all of these