Membrane Filtration of Coagulated Suspensions

Abstract

The deposition of small colloids or macromolecules in membrane pores and the subsequent irreversible fouling of the membrane is considered using a simple model for membrane fouling. As a strategy for avoiding pore fouling, it is proposed that foulants capable of entering membrane pores be aggregated to produce particles that are rejected at the membrane surface. Considerations in filtering suspensions of particles on membranes are discussed with emphasis on particle transport mechanisms as a function of particle size. It is concluded that particles larger than