Whatman

Whatman is a British manufacturer of laboratory filter papers and other scientific consumables, known for its high-quality filtration products. Founded in 1793 by English paper manufacturer John Whatman, the company has a long-standing reputation for precision and reliability in laboratory settings. Originally established in Kent, England, Whatman has since expanded its operations globally while maintaining its headquarters in Maidstone, Kent.

The company is best recognized for its Whatman filter papers, which are widely used in laboratories for applications such as filtration, chromatography, and sample preparation. These papers are categorized by grade, with each grade offering distinct pore sizes and filtration efficiencies. For example, quantitative filter papers are designed for general filtration tasks, while qualitative papers are used for more specialized analytical procedures. Whatman also produces a range of other laboratory products, including membrane filters, chromatography papers, and solid-phase extraction materials.

Whatman’s products are widely adopted in academic research, pharmaceutical development, environmental testing, and industrial analysis. The company’s commitment to quality assurance and innovation has earned it a strong presence in the scientific community. Over the years, Whatman has been acquired by several larger corporations, including GE Healthcare in 2008, which further expanded its distribution and product offerings.

In addition to its core filtration products, Whatman has diversified into related scientific supplies, such as pipette tips, microplates, and other laboratory accessories. The brand remains synonymous with dependable filtration solutions, making it a trusted name in laboratory equipment worldwide.