Abstract
The present study explores how microbubbles can improve membrane filtration by preventing membrane fouling. Microbubbles (MBs) 10–50 μm in diameter were generated by pumping the feed solution with air bubbles through a slit under high shear stress. Filtration of raw river water at pilot-plant scale confirmed that adding MBs to the feed solution does indeed reduce membrane fouling. The effect of MBs on the flux was examined under various conditions of filtration flux and experimental duration. MBs reduced fouling over both short and long (>1 month) time frames, and were also effective for cleaning the membrane. Thus, incorporating MBs into water for membrane filtration may reduce the costs and energy consumption associated with water treatment.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 3820-3826 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| Journal | Desalination and Water Treatment |
| Volume | 57 |
| Issue number | 9 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 19 Feb 2016 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Cellulose acetate
- Filtration flux
- Hollow fiber membrane
- Membrane fouling
- Microbubble
- Ultrafiltration
