To get a perspective of how small 0.1 micrometers is, a human hair is typically 70-100 micrometers. This means that 0.1 micrometers is 700 to 1,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair. Considering that that most bacteria range in size from 0.5 to 5 micrometers, 0.1 micrometers is about 5-50 times smaller than typical bacteria making this a very special filter indeed.

Micron Filters are typically manufactured using materials such as polypropylene, glass fiber or a combination of synthetic fibers. These materials are constructed to create a dense matrix that is able to collect microscopic particles from the fluids or air that is running through them.

The role of .1 micron filters used in AERs (Automated Endoscope Reprocessors) is critically important. Endoscopy is a vital diagnostic and therapeutic tool used in modern medicine. It allows doctors to see inside the body and perform minimally invasive medical procedures often saving lives. The endoscopes used in these procedures must be sterile to reduce the chance of life-threatening infections or cross contamination. Therefore, endoscopes are put through a series of cleaning and disinfecting steps using fluids including water and chemical disinfectants. The 0.1 micron filters play a vital role in this process:

• Water Filtration: The water used in AERs needs to be free of contaminants. The 0.1 micron filters remove bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms from the water preventing them from being redeposited onto the endoscopes during rinsing.
  
  
• Chemical Disinfectant Filtration: Disinfectants used in AERs must also be free of particulates to maintain their effectiveness. 0.1 micron filters ensure that the chemical solutions remain pure keeping their effective potency by filtering out impurities.
  
  
• Contaminants Protection: During the reprocessing cycle, endoscopes are exposed to various environments. 0.1 micron filters act as a barrier, ensuring that no new contaminants are introduced into the system, thus maintaining a sterile environment throughout the process. 

Compliance standards in the medical industry are stringent. The 0.1 micron filters have become the standard helping AERs comply with these industry standards and guidelines for medical device reprocessing, including those set by the FDA and CDC. Ultimately, the use of these filters enhances patients' safety by providing healthcare providers with sterile, ready-to-use endoscopes by ensuring the removal of even the smallest contaminants. They are critical in the ongoing effort to provide safe and effective healthcare.