Membrane fouling prevention in crossflow microfiltration by the use of electric fields

From an analysis of fluid velocity and electric field profiles the trajectory of particles through crossflow microfiltration units has been calculated. A tubular geometry filter leads to the most effective use of electrical power, when it is used as an aid to prevent membrane fouling. Results for plate, tubular and multitube filters are given. Some experimental data from a tubular filter are presented, which demonstrate typical effects of the important parameters.