| What's the difference between a CTA and TFM membrane? |
| A CTA (Cellulose Triacetate) membrane is a paper by-product membrane bonded to a synthetic layer. Due to its cellulose composition, a CTA membrane requires chlorine in the water source to keep bacteria from forming on it. A CTA membrane has a rejection rate of between 85-94 percent. CTA membranes have an average life expectancy of 18-24 months. They are considered inferior to TFM membranes. Premier only uses TFM (Thin Film Membrane) membranes, which are made of a synthetic material. A TFM membrane does not require chlorine be in the water to protect it from bacteria. A TFM membrane has a rejection percentage between 95-98 percent, which is much higher than the CTA membrane. A TFM membrane will last between 2-5 years, which is much longer than a CTA membrane . Many hospitals use TFM membranes in their hemo-dialysis (kidney) machines because of the higher purity water they produce. Home Page | FAQs | Glossary | Contact Us |