A filtration medium based on physisorption, called a Varnish Removal Filter (VRF), has been developed. This filtration medium is a composite consisting of a cellulose fiber matrix and other materials that give it a high-void volume and an open-fiber matrix. The resin-bonded, open-fiber matrix provides high permeability, which is necessary for the fluid to come in contact with the large fiber surface area for the absorption of the varnish precursors. The specially formulated binder resins give the filter media high affinity for the polar varnish precursors, resulting in high removal efficiency and retention of the material suspended in the fluid phase.