Factors affecting the fouling of membranes in crossflow microfiltration

Results from an on-going research programme are presented which illustrate the factors affecting the fouling of polymeric microfiltration membranes by colloidal and fine particulate matter. Experimental data obtained from a computer controlled crossflow apparatus show how flux decline is influenced by a matrix of particle, suspension, membrane and process parameters. Relevant variables such as feed concentration, crossflow velocity, filtration pressure and suspension pH are delineated and separated to highlight the salient features of the crossflow process. The results obtained to date from the project explain some of the anomalies which have been reported in the published literature and indicate ways in which process design can be improved.