Cellulose nitrate membranes also called nitrocellulose filtration media are used in a variety of biological science processes including sample preparation, microbiological studies, and to bind DNA for hybridization. These membrane filters feature narrow pore size distribution for improved surface capture and analysis and low levels of extractables to ensure sample integrity. In general, Cellulose nitrate membranes are inherently brittle which makes them difficult to handle.

Cellulose nitrate membranes are comprised of a mixture of nitric esters of cellulose, and a highly flammable compound that is the main ingredient of modern gunpowder. Nitrocellulose is a fluffy white substance that retains some of the fibrous structure of untreated cellulose. It is not stable to heat, and even carefully prepared samples will ignite on brief heating to more than about 150º C (300º F). When nitrocellulose decomposes, it forms products that catalyze further decomposition; this reaction, if not stopped in time, results in an explosion.