Most Common Cartridge Media – Cellulose/Polyester Blends (80/20 blend) and Nanofiber
The vast majority of cartridge collectors (over 80% by some estimates) use either cellulose blends (sometimes called paper media) or nanofiber cartridges.
The for less demanding applications the most commonly used for cartridge collectors is 80/20 cellulose and polyester blend. This media provides excellent filtration efficiency and dust release at a economical price point. Most common media for dry and coarse dust. However, the collection efficiency is not very high and the overall life of these filters is less than other options.
For the majority of dust collection applications nanofiber cartridges are used to provide excellent MERV 15 or higher collection efficiency, increased resistant to moisture and oil, while also having greater durability to withstand rigorous cleaning, which allows for a longer service life compared to 80/20 media options. Frequently, nanofiber cartridges are available with  flame resistant and oleophobic treatments. Elite nanofiber cartridges can even achieve MERV 16 rating for maximum initial efficiency with efficiencies of 99.999% on 0.5 micron and larger particles by weight and emissions below 0.001 gr/dscf on most applications when tested.
Less Common Cartridge Media – Spunbond Polyester, Aramid and P84
For applications which require stronger filter media with better dust release, cartridges with spunbond polyester are required. The spunbond media has a high burst strength, and increased dimensional stability, meaning spunbond filters work well in applications with moist air, oil contaminants, heat, chemicals or abrasive dusts. Additionally, the wide open space between each pleat of fabric allows for improved dust release, crucial for applications involving large or irregularly shaped dusts or hygroscopic or agglomerative dusts. For applications requiring high collection efficiency spunbond filters are also available with ePTFE membrane, which results in a MERV 16 rating and provides improved dust release and longer filter life and sub micron filtration efficient.
For specialty applications with higher temperatures, harsh chemicals or abrasive dusts, cartridges made from aramid (Nomex®) or PPS  can be used. These cartridges use special synthetic fabric medias to achieve their higher temperature ratings up to 375F. These cartridges usually have all stainless steel inner cores and end caps as well as high temperature gaskets and adhesives used in their construction. For these reasons, they can cost 2-3 times as much as traditional nanofiber or spunbond cartridges.