With depth membranes, most particles are captured within the interstices of the membrane except for relatively large particles. Since depth membranes depend upon the tortuosity of their flow paths for capture, they will trap not only particles of the same size or larger than the rated pore size, but also many particles below that rated pore size. Flow rates for the two types of membranes are roughly equivalent. Both membranes are non-migrating. Both types of membranes can be autoclaved.
Cryogenic temperatures have little or no effect on either membrane.
The screen membrane is completely non-hygroscopic. Many depth membranes absorb moisture from the air and must be dried before use, especially in some critical analytical procedures. Both screen and depth membranes are generally hydrophilic except for PTFE and polypropylene which are inherently hydrophobic. Both types of membranes can be made partially or completely hydrophobic. Chemical resistance of the various kinds of membranes depends upon the material from which they are manufactured.