| abstract |
A hydrophilic, semi-permeable membrane comprises a porous PTFE membrane having the internal and external surfaces of the membrane structure coated by a complex formed by the combination of a hydrophilic polymer which adheres to the membrane structure and a complexing agent, the complex rendering the porous PTFE membrane substantially hydrophilic and protein affinitive. The preferred hydrophilic polymer is polyvinyl alcohol, and the complexing agent is preferably a dibasic inorganic acid, such as boric acid, or a salt thereof. Such hydrophilic, semi-permeable membranes are particularly suitable for protecting the target area of a body fluid diagnostic test strip, and as cell culture support members. Methods of forming the membranes are also described. |