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Liang S, Fu K, Li X, Wang Z. Unveiling the spatiotemporal dynamics of membrane fouling: A focused review on dynamic fouling characterization techniques and future perspectives. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 328:103179. [PMID: 38754212 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2024.103179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Membrane technology has emerged as a crucial method for obtaining clean water from unconventional sources in the face of water scarcity. It finds wide applications in wastewater treatment, advanced treatment, and desalination of seawater and brackish water. However, membrane fouling poses a huge challenge that limits the development of membrane-based water treatment technologies. Characterizing the dynamics of membrane fouling is crucial for understanding its development, mechanisms, and effective mitigation. Instrumental techniques that enable in situ or real-time characterization of the dynamics of membrane fouling provide insights into the temporal and spatial evolution of fouling, which play a crucial role in understanding the fouling mechanism and the formulation of membrane control strategies. This review consolidates existing knowledge about the principal advanced instrumental analysis technologies employed to characterize the dynamics of membrane fouling, in terms of membrane structure, morphology, and intermolecular forces. Working principles, applications, and limitations of each technique are discussed, enabling researchers to select appropriate methods for their specific studies. Furthermore, prospects for the future development of dynamic characterization techniques for membrane fouling are discussed, underscoring the need for continued research and innovation in this field to overcome the challenges posed by membrane fouling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Liang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Kunkun Fu
- School of Aerospace Engineering and Applied Mechanics, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xuesong Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
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2
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Ahmed MA, Amin S, Mohamed AA. Fouling in reverse osmosis membranes: monitoring, characterization, mitigation strategies and future directions. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14908. [PMID: 37064488 PMCID: PMC10102236 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Water scarcity has been a global challenge for many countries over the past decades, and as a result, reverse osmosis (RO) has emerged as a promising and cost-effective tool for water desalination and wastewater remediation. Currently, RO accounts for >65% of the worldwide desalination capacity; however, membrane fouling is a major issue in RO processes. Fouling reduces the membrane's lifespan and permeability, while also increases the operating pressure and chemical cleaning frequency. Overall, fouling reduces the quality and quantity of desalinated water, and thus hinders the sustainable application of RO membranes by disturbing its efficacy and economic aspects. Fouling arises from various physicochemical interactions between water pollutants and membrane materials leading to foulants' accumulation onto the membrane surfaces and/or inside the membrane pores. The current review illustrates the main types of particulates, organic, inorganic and biological foulants, along with the major factors affecting its formation and development. Moreover, the currently used monitoring methods, characterization techniques and the potential mitigation strategies of membrane fouling are reviewed. Further, the still-faced challenges and the future research on RO membrane fouling are addressed.
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3
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Yaqub M, Nguyen MN, Lee W. Treating reverse osmosis concentrate to address scaling and fouling problems in zero-liquid discharge systems: A scientometric review of global trends. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 844:157081. [PMID: 35780878 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Currently, reverse osmosis concentrate (ROC) treatment is one of the most promising techniques for its disposal because it produces freshwater with high recovery and valuable materials such as salts and reduces waste volume and environmental pollution. Public attention to the severe consequences of water pollution and strict environmental regulations on wastewater discharge has pushed water-polluting industries toward zero-liquid discharge (ZLD). However, scaling and fouling problems increase energy consumption and limit permeate flux at high salt concentrations, mainly due to calcium, magnesium, and silica precipitation, ultimately decreasing ZLD performance. Therefore, this study discusses drivers and ROC pretreatment technologies to improve ZLD efficiency and presents a scientometric review of global trends. The advantages, disadvantages, and economic and environmental aspects of conventional and emerging pre-treatment technologies were studied. Traditional treatment of chemical processes combined with precipitation removes a large amount of scaling ions; however, high operation and maintenance costs and limited full-scale plant experience are the main drawbacks. Softening and coagulation are most commonly applied to treat large volumes at a moderate cost; however, substantial sludge production and increased conductivity are major operational issues. Moreover, emerging technologies efficiently remove scale-forming ions with high capital and operating costs. New variations in standard reverse osmosis technologies have improved ZLD efficiency; nonetheless, scaling and fouling are of concern. Therefore, this review presents the studies on ROC pre-treatment technologies for removing scaling ions to enhance ZLD efficiency, which can help in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Yaqub
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi, Republic of Korea.
| | - Mai Ngoc Nguyen
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi, Republic of Korea
| | - Wontae Lee
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Gottschalk N, Augustin W, Scholl S, Ian Wilson D, Mercadé-Prieto R. Model food soils for investigating cleaning: a review. FOOD AND BIOPRODUCTS PROCESSING 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbp.2022.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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5
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Krishnan S, Nasrullah M, Kamyab H, Suzana N, Munaim MSA, Wahid ZA, Ali IH, Salehi R, Chaiprapat S. Fouling characteristics and cleaning approach of ultrafiltration membrane during xylose reductase separation. Bioprocess Biosyst Eng 2022; 45:1125-1136. [PMID: 35469027 DOI: 10.1007/s00449-022-02726-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Many operating parameters of ultrafiltration (UF) are playing a crucial role when using a polyethersulfone membrane to separate xylose reductase (XR) enzyme from reaction mixtures during xylitol synthesis. The present study focuses on the separation of XR enzyme using a cross-flow ultrafiltration (UF) membrane. The filtration process was analyzed using the three effective variables such as filtration time, cross-flow velocity (CFV), and the transmembrane pressure (TMP), which were ranging from 0 to 100 min, 0.52 to 1.2 cm/s and 1-1.6 bar, respectively. Then, using the resistance in series model, the hydraulic resistance for alkali chemical cleaning during XR separation was estimated. During separation, increased TMP showed a positive-flux effect as a driving force, however, fouling and polarized layer were more prominent under higher TMP. Increased CFV, on the other hand, was found more efficient in fouling control. In terms of the membrane cleaning techniques, an alkaline solution containing 0.1 M sodium hydroxide was shown to be the most effective substance in removing foulants from the membrane surface in this investigation. Cleaning with an alkaline solution resulted in a maximum flux recovery of 93% for xylose reductase separation. This work may serve as a useful guide to better understand the optimization parameters during XR separation and alleviating UF membrane fouling induced during XR separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santhana Krishnan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, PSU Energy Systems Research Institute (PERIN), Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, 90110, Thailand
| | - Mohd Nasrullah
- Faculty of Civil Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Gambang, Malaysia
| | - Hesam Kamyab
- Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, 54100, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 600 077, India
| | - Noor Suzana
- Faculty of Civil Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Gambang, Malaysia
| | | | - Zularisam Ab Wahid
- Faculty of Civil Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang, Gambang, Malaysia
| | - Ismat H Ali
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reza Salehi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, PSU Energy Systems Research Institute (PERIN), Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, 90110, Thailand
| | - Sumate Chaiprapat
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, PSU Energy Systems Research Institute (PERIN), Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, 90110, Thailand.
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Hollow-Fiber RO Membranes Fabricated via Adsorption of Low-Charge Poly(vinyl alcohol) Copolymers. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:membranes11120981. [PMID: 34940482 PMCID: PMC8706410 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11120981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We report a new type of alkaline-stable hollow-fiber reverse osmosis (RO) membrane with an outside-in configuration that was established via adsorption of positively charged poly(vinyl alcohol) copolymers containing a small amount of quaternary ammonium moieties. Anionic sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone nitrile) hollow-fiber membranes were utilized as a substrate upon which the cationic copolymer layer was self-organized via electrostatic interaction. While the adsorption of the low-charge copolymer on the membrane support proceeded in a Layer-by-Layer (LbL) fashion, it was found that the adsorbed amount by one immersion step was enough to form a defect-free separation layer with a thickness of around 20 nm after cross-linking of vinyl alcohol units with glutaraldehyde. The resultant hollow-fiber membrane showed excellent desalination performances (NaCl rejection of 98.3% at 5 bar and 1500 mg/L), which is comparable with commercial low-pressure polyamide RO membranes, as well as good alkaline resistance. The separation performance could be restored by repeating the LbL treatment after alkaline degradation. Such features of LbL membranes may contribute to extending RO membrane lifetimes.
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7
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Sanawar H, Kim L, Farhat N, van Loosdrecht M, Vrouwenvelder J. Periodic chemical cleaning with urea: disintegration of biofilms and reduction of key biofilm-forming bacteria from reverse osmosis membranes. WATER RESEARCH X 2021; 13:100117. [PMID: 34585132 PMCID: PMC8456046 DOI: 10.1016/j.wroa.2021.100117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Biofouling is one of the major factors causing decline in membrane performance in reverse osmosis (RO) plants, and perhaps the biggest hurdle of membrane technology. Chemical cleaning is periodically carried out at RO membrane installations aiming to restore membrane performance. Typical cleaning agents used in the water treatment industry include sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) in sequence. Rapid biofilm regrowth and related membrane performance decline after conventional chemical cleaning is a routinely observed phenomenon due to the inefficient removal of biomass from membrane modules. Since extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) make up the strongest and predominant structural framework of biofilms, disintegration of the EPS matrix should be the main target for enhanced biomass removal. Previously, we demonstrated at lab-scale the use of concentrated urea as a chemical cleaning agent for RO membrane systems. The protein denaturation property of urea was exploited to solubilize the proteinaceous foulants, weakening the EPS layer, resulting in enhanced biomass solubilization and removal from RO membrane systems. In this work, we investigated the impact of repeated chemical cleaning cycles with urea/HCl as well as NaOH/HCl on biomass removal and the potential adaptation of the biofilm microbial community. Chemical cleaning with urea/HCl was consistently more effective than NaOH/HCl cleaning over 6 cleaning and regrowth cycles. At the end of the 6 cleaning cycles, the percent reduction was 35% and 41% in feed channel pressure drop, 50% and 70% in total organic carbon, 30% and 40% in EPS proteins, and 40% and 66% in the peak intensities of protein-like matter, after NaOH/HCl cleaning and Urea/HCl cleaning, respectively. 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing of the biofilm microbial community revealed that urea cleaning does not select for key biofouling families such as Sphingomonadaceae and Xanthomonadaceae that are known to survive conventional chemical cleaning and produce adhesive EPS. This study reaffirmed that urea possesses all the desirable properties of a chemical cleaning agent, i.e., it dissolves the existing fouling layer, delays fresh fouling accumulation by inhibiting the production of a more viscous EPS, does not cause damage to the membranes, is chemically stable, and environmentally friendly as it can be recycled for cleaning.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Sanawar
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - L.H. Kim
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - N.M. Farhat
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - M.C.M. van Loosdrecht
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
| | - J.S. Vrouwenvelder
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
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8
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Golgoli M, Khiadani M, Shafieian A, Sen TK, Hartanto Y, Johns ML, Zargar M. Microplastics fouling and interaction with polymeric membranes: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 283:131185. [PMID: 34144295 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The emergence and accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in various aquatic environments have recently raised significant concerns. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been identified as one of the major sources of MPs discharge to the environment, implying a substantial need to improve advanced techniques for more efficient removal of MPs. Polymeric membranes have been proven effective in MPs removal. However, fouling is the main drawback of membrane processes and MPs can foul the membranes due to their small size and specific surface properties. Hence, it is important to investigate the impacts of MPs on membrane fouling to develop efficient membrane-based techniques for MPs removal. Although membrane technologies have a high potential for MPs removal, the interaction of MPs with membranes and their fouling effects have not been critically reviewed. The purpose of this paper is to provide a state-of-the-art review of MPs interaction with membranes and facilitate a better understanding of the relevant limitations and prospects of the membrane technologies. The first section of this paper is dedicated to a review of recent studies on MPs occurrence in WWTPs aiming to determine the most frequent MPs. This is followed by a summary of recent studies on MPs removal using membranes and discussions on the impact of MPs on membrane fouling and other probable issues (abrasion, concentration polarisation, biofouling, etc.). Finally, some recommendations for further research in this area are highlighted. This study serves as a valuable reference for future research on the development of anti-fouling membranes considering these new emerging contaminates.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Golgoli
- School of Engineering, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - M Khiadani
- School of Engineering, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - A Shafieian
- School of Engineering, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - T K Sen
- School of Engineering, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - Y Hartanto
- Materials and Process Engineering (iMMC-IMAP), UC Louvain, Place Sainte Barbe 2, 1348, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - M L Johns
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - M Zargar
- School of Engineering, Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia.
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9
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Nava-Ocampo MF, Fuhaid LA, Verpoorte R, Choi YH, van Loosdrecht MCM, Vrouwenvelder JS, Witkamp GJ, Farinha ASF, Bucs SS. Natural deep eutectic solvents as biofilm structural breakers. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 201:117323. [PMID: 34139511 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) are composed of supramolecular interactions of two or more natural compounds, such as organic acids, sugars, and amino acids, and they are being used as a new media alternative to conventional solvents. In this study, a new application of NADES is presented as a possible technology for biofilm structural breaker in complex systems since the current solvents used for biofilm cleaning and extraction of biofilm components use hazardous solutions. The NADES (betaine:urea:water and lactic acid:glucose:water) were analyzed before and after the biofilm treatment by attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy. Our results indicate that the green solvents could solubilize up to ≈70 percent of the main components of the biofilms extracellular matrix. The solubilization of the biomolecules weakened the biofilm structure, which could enhance the biofilm solubilization and removal. The NADES have the potential to be an environment-friendly, green solvent to extract valuable compounds and break the main structure from the biofilm, leading to a greener method for extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) extraction and biofilm treatment in various water treatment systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Nava-Ocampo
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lamya Al Fuhaid
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Robert Verpoorte
- Natural Products Laboratory, Institute Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Young Hae Choi
- Natural Products Laboratory, Institute Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Mark C M van Loosdrecht
- Biochemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes S Vrouwenvelder
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Geert J Witkamp
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Andreia S F Farinha
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Szilárd S Bucs
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Lin W, Zhang Y, Li D, Wang XM, Huang X. Roles and performance enhancement of feed spacer in spiral wound membrane modules for water treatment: A 20-year review on research evolvement. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 198:117146. [PMID: 33945947 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Membrane technologies have been widely applied in water treatment, wastewater reclamation and seawater desalination. Feed spacer present in spiral wound membrane (SWM) modules plays a pivotal role in creating flow channels, promoting fluid mixing and enhancing mass transfer. However, it induces the increase of feed channel pressure (FCP) drop and localized stagnant zones that provokes membrane fouling. For the first time, we comprehensively review the research evolvement on feed spacer in SWM modules for water treatment over the last 20 years, to reveal the impacts of feed spacer on the hydrodynamics and biofouling in the spacer-filled channel, and to discuss the potential approaches and current limitations for the modification of feed spacer. The research process can be divided into three phases, with research focus shifting from hydrodynamics in Phase Ⅰ (the year of 2001-2008), to biofouling in Phase Ⅱ (the year of 2009-2015), and then to novel spacer designs in Phase Ⅲ (the year of 2016-2020). The spacer configuration has a momentous impact on the hydraulic performance regarding flow velocity field, shear stress, mass transfer and FCP drop. Biofouling initially occurs on feed spacer, especially around spacer filaments and the contact zones with membrane surface, and ultimately degrades the overall membrane performance indicating the importance of controlling spacer biofouling. The modification of feed spacer is mainly achieved by altering surface chemistry or introducing novel configurations. However, the stability of spacer coating and the economy and practicality of 3D-printed spacer remain a predicament to be tackled. Future studies are suggested to focus on the standardization of testing conditions for spacer evaluation, the effect of hydrodynamics on membrane fouling control, the design and fabrication of novel feed spacer adaptable for SWM modules, the application of feed spacer for drinking water production, organic fouling control in spacer-filled channel and the role of permeate spacer on membrane performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichen Lin
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yuting Zhang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Danyang Li
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Xiao-Mao Wang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Research and Application Center for Membrane Technology, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Xia Huang
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Research and Application Center for Membrane Technology, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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11
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Gonzalez-Gil G, Behzad AR, Farinha ASF, Zhao C, Bucs SS, Nada T, Das R, Altmann T, Buijs PJ, Vrouwenvelder JS. Clinical Autopsy of a Reverse Osmosis Membrane Module. FRONTIERS IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fceng.2021.683379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The desalination of seawater using reverse osmosis membranes is an attractive solution to global freshwater scarcity. However, membrane performance is reduced by (bio)fouling. Membrane autopsies are essential for identifying the type of fouling material, and applying corrective measures to minimize membrane fouling. Information from full-scale membrane autopsies guiding improved plant operations is scant in the formal literature. In this case-study, a reverse osmosis membrane from a full-scale seawater desalination plant with a feed channel pressure drop increase of about 218% over the pressure vessel was autopsied. The simultaneous determination of microbial cells, ATP, and total organic carbon (TOC) abundances per membrane area allowed estimating the contributions of biofouling and organic fouling. The abundance of microbial cells determined by flow cytometry (up to 7 × 108 cells/cm2), and ATP (up to 21,000 pg/cm2) as well as TOC (up to 98 μg/cm2) were homogeneously distributed on the membrane. Inorganic fouling was also measured, and followed a similar coverage distribution to that of biofouling. Iron (∼150 μg/cm2, estimated by ICP-MS) was the main inorganic foulant. ATR-FTIR spectra supported that membrane fouling was both organic/biological and inorganic. High-resolution SEM-EDS imaging of cross-sectioned membranes allowed assessing the thickness of the fouling layer (up to 20 μm) and its elemental composition. Imaging results further supported the results of homogeneous fouling coverage. Moreover, imaging revealed both zones with and without compression of the polysulfone membrane layer, suggesting that the stress due to operating pressure was heterogeneous. The procedure for this membrane autopsy provided a reasonable overview of the diverse contributors of fouling and might be a starting point to building a consensus autopsy protocol. Next, it would be valuable to build a RO membrane autopsy database, which can be used as a guidance and diagnostic tool to improve the management and operation of RO desalination plants.
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12
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Bristow NW, Vogt SJ, Bucs SS, Vrouwenvelder JS, Johns ML, Fridjonsson EO. Novel Magnetic Resonance Measurements of Fouling in Operating Spiral Wound Reverse Osmosis Membrane Modules. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 196:117006. [PMID: 33744656 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A novel magnetic resonance measurement (MRM) protocol for non-invasive monitoring of fouling in spiral wound reverse osmosis (SWRO) membrane modules is demonstrated. Sodium alginate was used to progressively foul a commercial SWRO membrane at industrially relevant operating conditions in a circulating flow loop. The MRM protocol showcased the following: (i) earlier, more sensitive detection and quantification of fouling in the membrane module compared to feed-channel pressure drop. This was achieved using appropriate detection of the total nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signal. (ii) 2D cross-sectional imaging of the location of the accumulated foulant material; this was preferentially located adjacent to the membrane spacer sheet nodes, which was subsequently confirmed by a module autopsy. This image contrast, which could also readily differentiate the membrane, feed spacer and permeate spacer regions, was realised based on differences in the NMR relaxation parameter, T2,eff. (iii) High frequency acquisition of 2D cross-sectional velocity images of the module revealing very localised flow channelling in response to gradual foulant accumulation which impacted significantly on the flow pattern within the central permeate tube. Collectively this NMR/MRI measurement protocol provides a powerful analysis tool for the evolution of fouling in such complex modules, thus ultimately enabling more informed module design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas W Bristow
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Sarah J Vogt
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Szilard S Bucs
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Johannes S Vrouwenvelder
- Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, Delft, 2629 HZ, The Netherlands
| | - Michael L Johns
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Einar O Fridjonsson
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.
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13
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Matin A, Laoui T, Falath W, Farooque M. Fouling control in reverse osmosis for water desalination & reuse: Current practices & emerging environment-friendly technologies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 765:142721. [PMID: 33129530 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Reverse Osmosis (RO) is becoming increasingly popular for seawater desalination and wastewater reclamation. However, fouling of the membranes adversely impacts the overall process efficiency and economics. To date, several strategies and approaches have been used in RO plants and investigated at the laboratory-scale for their effectiveness in the control of different fouling types. Amid growing concerns and stringent regulations for the conservation of environment, there is an increasing trend to identify technologies that are effective in fouling mitigation as well as friendly to the environment. The present review elaborates on the different types of environment-friendly technologies for membrane fouling control that are currently being used or under investigation. It commences with a brief introduction to the global water crisis and the potential of membrane-based processes in overcoming this problem. This is followed by a section on membrane fouling that briefly describes the major fouling types and their impact on the membrane performance. Section 3 discusses the predominant fouling control/prevention strategies including feedwater pretreatment, membrane and spacer surface modification and membrane cleaning. The currently employed techniques are discussed together with their drawbacks, with some light being shed on the emerging technologies that have the ability to overcome the current limitations. The penultimate section provides a detailed discussion on a variety of eco-friendly/chemical free techniques investigated to control different fouling types. These include both control and prevention strategies, for example, bioflocculation and electromagnetic fields, as well as remediation techniques such as osmotic backwashing and gas purging. In addition, quorum sensing has been specifically discussed for biofouling remediation. The promising findings from different studies are presented followed by a discussion on their drawbacks and limitations. The review concludes with a need for carrying out fundamental studies to develop better understanding of the eco-friendly processes discussed in the penultimate section and their optimization for possible integration into the RO plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Matin
- Center of Research Excellence in Desalination & Water Treatment, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia; Center for Environment & Water, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Tahar Laoui
- Dept. of Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Desalination Research Group, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Wail Falath
- Center of Research Excellence in Desalination & Water Treatment, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia; Center for Environment & Water, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia; Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohammed Farooque
- Desalination Technologies Research Institute, Saline Water Conversion Corporation, Jubail, Saudi Arabia
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Kieferle I, Kulozik U. Importance of process conditions in the displacement of protein concentrates from spiral-wound membrane modules. FOOD AND BIOPRODUCTS PROCESSING 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbp.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Daly S, Casey E, Semião AJ. Osmotic backwashing of forward osmosis membranes to detach adhered bacteria and mitigate biofouling. J Memb Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2020.118838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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16
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Yin Y, Jeong N, Tong T. The effects of membrane surface wettability on pore wetting and scaling reversibility associated with mineral scaling in membrane distillation. J Memb Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2020.118503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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17
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Li Y, Luo J, Wan Y. Biofouling in sugarcane juice refining by nanofiltration membrane: Fouling mechanism and cleaning. J Memb Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2020.118432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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18
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Jafari M, D'haese A, Zlopasa J, Cornelissen E, Vrouwenvelder J, Verbeken K, Verliefde A, van Loosdrecht M, Picioreanu C. A comparison between chemical cleaning efficiency in lab-scale and full-scale reverse osmosis membranes: Role of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). J Memb Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2020.118189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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19
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Zargar M, Ujihara R, Vogt SJ, Vrouwenvelder JS, Fridjonsson EO, Johns ML. Imaging of membrane concentration polarization by NaCl using 23Na nuclear magnetic resonance. J Memb Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2020.117868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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20
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Real-time detection of early-stage calcium sulfate and calcium carbonate scaling using Raman spectroscopy. J Memb Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2019.117603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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21
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Yang W, Son M, Rossi R, Vrouwenvelder JS, Logan BE. Adapting Aluminum-Doped Zinc Oxide for Electrically Conductive Membranes Fabricated by Atomic Layer Deposition. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:963-969. [PMID: 31834766 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b20385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The use of electrically conductive membranes has recently drawn great interest in water treatment as an approach to reduce biofouling. Most conductive membranes are made by binding nanoparticles (carbon nanotubes or graphene) to a polymeric membrane using additional polymers, but this method risks leaching these nanomaterials into the environment. A new approach was developed here based on producing an electrically conductive layer of aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) by atomic layer deposition. The aqueous instability of AZO, which is a critical challenge for water applications, was solved by capping the AZO layer with an ultrathin (∼11 nm) TiO2 layer (AZO/TiO2). The combined film exhibited prolonged stability in water and had a low sheet resistance of 67 Ω/sq with a 120 nm-thick coating, while the noncapped AZO coating quickly deteriorated as shown by a large increase in membrane resistance. The AZO/TiO2 membranes had enhanced resistance to biofouling, with a 72% reduction in bacterial counts in the absence of an applied current due to its higher hydrophilicity than the bare polymeric membrane, and it achieved an additional 50% reduction in bacterial colonization with an applied voltage. The use of TiO2-capped AZO layers provides a new approach for producing conductive membranes using abundant materials, and it avoids the risk of releasing nanoparticles into the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wulin Yang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania 16802 , United States
| | - Moon Son
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania 16802 , United States
| | - Ruggero Rossi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania 16802 , United States
| | - Johannes S Vrouwenvelder
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE) , King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) , Thuwal 23955-6900 , Saudi Arabia
| | - Bruce E Logan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , Pennsylvania 16802 , United States
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Simkins J, Schuhmann S, Guthausen G, Heijnen M, Codd S, Seymour J. Characterization of biofilm distribution in hollow fiber membranes using Compressed Sensing Magnetic Resonance Imaging. J Memb Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2019.117437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Jiang
- Barrer Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Santanu Karan
- Barrer Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
- Membrane Science and Separation Technology Division, CSIR-Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute, G.B. Marg, Bhavnagar − 364002, Gujarat, India
| | - Andrew G. Livingston
- Barrer Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
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Rudolph G, Virtanen T, Ferrando M, Güell C, Lipnizki F, Kallioinen M. A review of in situ real-time monitoring techniques for membrane fouling in the biotechnology, biorefinery and food sectors. J Memb Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2019.117221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Farhat NM, Javier L, Van Loosdrecht MCM, Kruithof JC, Vrouwenvelder JS. Role of feed water biodegradable substrate concentration on biofouling: Biofilm characteristics, membrane performance and cleanability. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 150:1-11. [PMID: 30508707 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2018.11.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Biofouling severely impacts operational performance of membrane systems increasing the cost of water production. Understanding the effect of critical parameters of feed water such as biodegradable substrate concentration on the developed biofilm characteristics enables development of more effective biofouling control strategies. In this study, the effect of substrate concentration on the biofilm characteristics was examined using membrane fouling simulators (MFSs). A feed channel pressure drop (PD) increase of 200 mbar was used as a benchmark to study the developed biofilm. The amount and characteristics of the formed biofilm were analysed in relation to membrane performance indicators: feed channel pressure drop and permeate flux. The effect of the characteristics of the biofilm developed at three substrate concentrations on the removal efficiency of the different biofilms was evaluated applying acid/base cleaning. Results showed that a higher feed water substrate concentration caused a higher biomass amount, a faster PD increase, but a lower permeate flux decline. The permeate flux decline was affected by the spatial location and the physical characteristics of the biofilm rather than the total amount of biofilm. The slower growing biofilm developed at the lowest substrate concentration was harder to remove by NaOH/HCl cleanings than the biofilm developed at the higher substrate concentrations. Effective biofilm removal is essential to prevent a fast biofilm regrowth after cleaning. While substrate limitation is a generally accepted biofouling control strategy delaying biofouling, development of advanced cleaning methods to remove biofilms formed under substrate limited conditions is of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Farhat
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
| | - L Javier
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - M C M Van Loosdrecht
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - J C Kruithof
- Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911, MA, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
| | - J S Vrouwenvelder
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ, Delft, the Netherlands
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26
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Schuhmann S, Simkins J, Schork N, Codd S, Seymour J, Heijnen M, Saravia F, Horn H, Nirschl H, Guthausen G. Characterization and quantification of structure and flow in multichannel polymer membranes by MRI. J Memb Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2018.10.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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27
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Zhang W, Dong B. Effects of physical and chemical aspects on membrane fouling and cleaning using interfacial free energy analysis in forward osmosis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:21555-21567. [PMID: 29781060 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-2239-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Natural organic matter (NOM) in micro-polluted water purification using membranes is a critical issue to handle. Understanding the fouling mechanism in the forward osmosis (FO) process, particularly identifying the predominant factor that controls membrane fouling, could have significant effects on exerting the advantages of FO technique. Cellulose triacetate no-woven (CTA-NW) membrane is applied to experiments with a high removal efficiency (> 99%) for the model foulant. Tannic acid (TA) is used as a surrogate foulant for NOM in the membrane fouling process, thus enabling the analysis of the effects of physical and chemical aspects of water flux, retention, and adsorption. The membrane fouling behavior is affected mainly by the combined effects of the osmotic dragging force and the interaction of the pH in the working solution, foulants, and calcium ions, as demonstrated by the water flux loss and the changes of membrane retention and adsorption. The fouled CTA-NW membrane (in PRO mode) could be flux-recovered by > 85% through physical cleaning methods. The interfacial free energy analysis theory was used to analyze the membrane fouling behavior with calculating the interfacial cohesion and adhesion free energies. The cohesion free energy refers to the deposition of foulants (TA or TA combined with calcium ions) on a fouled membrane. In addition, the adhesion free energy could be used to evaluate the interaction between foulants and a clean membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanzhu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze Water Environment of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Bingzhi Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze Water Environment of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Jiang S, Li Y, Ladewig BP. A review of reverse osmosis membrane fouling and control strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 595:567-583. [PMID: 28399496 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.03.235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 279] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/25/2017] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Reverse osmosis (RO) membrane technology is one of the most important technologies for water treatment. However, membrane fouling is an inevitable issue. Membrane fouling leads to higher operating pressure, flux decline, frequent chemical cleaning and shorter membrane life. This paper reviews membrane fouling types and fouling control strategies, with a focus on the latest developments. The fundamentals of fouling are discussed in detail, including biofouling, organic fouling, inorganic scaling and colloidal fouling. Furthermore, fouling mitigation technologies are also discussed comprehensively. Pretreatment is widely used in practice to reduce the burden for the following RO operation while real time monitoring of RO has the advantage and potential of providing support for effective and efficient cleaning. Surface modification could slow down membrane fouling by changing surface properties such as surface smoothness and hydrophilicity, while novel membrane materials and synthesis processes build a promising future for the next generation of RO membranes with big advancements in fouling resistance. Especially in this review paper, statistical analysis is conducted where appropriate to reveal the research interests in RO fouling and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanxue Jiang
- Barrer Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Yuening Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, China
| | - Bradley P Ladewig
- Barrer Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, United Kingdom.
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A Short Review of Membrane Fouling in Forward Osmosis Processes. MEMBRANES 2017; 7:membranes7020030. [PMID: 28604649 PMCID: PMC5489864 DOI: 10.3390/membranes7020030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Interest in forward osmosis (FO) research has rapidly increased in the last decade due to problems of water and energy scarcity. FO processes have been used in many applications, including wastewater reclamation, desalination, energy production, fertigation, and food and pharmaceutical processing. However, the inherent disadvantages of FO, such as lower permeate water flux compared to pressure driven membrane processes, concentration polarisation (CP), reverse salt diffusion, the energy consumption of draw solution recovery and issues of membrane fouling have restricted its industrial applications. This paper focuses on the fouling phenomena of FO processes in different areas, including organic, inorganic and biological categories, for better understanding of this long-standing issue in membrane processes. Furthermore, membrane fouling monitoring and mitigation strategies are reviewed.
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Coutinho de Paula E, Amaral MCS. Extending the life-cycle of reverse osmosis membranes: A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2017; 35:456-470. [PMID: 28097920 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x16684383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The reverse osmosis (RO) technology for desalination and demineralization serves the global water crisis context, both technically and economically, and its market is growing. However, RO membranes have a limited life-cycle and are often disposed of in landfills. The impacts caused by the disposal of thousands of tonnes per annum of RO membranes have grown dramatically around the world. Waste prevention should have a high priority and take effect before the end-of-life phase of a product is reached. In this review, a summary is presented of the main advances in the performance of the RO technology and the membrane lifespan. Afterwards, this paper reviews the most important relevant literature and summarizes the key findings of the research on reusing and recycling the discarded modules for the purpose of extending the life-cycle of the RO membranes. In addtion, there are some recent researches that indicated recycling RO membranes for use by the microfiltration or ultrafiltration separation processes is a promising solution to the disposal problem. However, there are many gaps and differences in procedures and results. This article also discusses and brings to light key parameters involved and controversies about oxidative treatment of discarded RO membranes.
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Biofouling prevention using silver nanoparticle impregnated polyethersulfone (PES) membrane: E. coli cell-killing in a continuous cross-flow membrane module. J Colloid Interface Sci 2017; 491:13-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2016.11.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Revised: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Siddiqui A, Lehmann S, Bucs SS, Fresquet M, Fel L, Prest EIEC, Ogier J, Schellenberg C, van Loosdrecht MCM, Kruithof JC, Vrouwenvelder JS. Predicting the impact of feed spacer modification on biofouling by hydraulic characterization and biofouling studies in membrane fouling simulators. WATER RESEARCH 2017; 110:281-287. [PMID: 28027527 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2016] [Revised: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Feed spacers are an essential part of spiral-wound reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF) membrane modules. Geometric modification of feed spacers is a potential option to reduce the impact of biofouling on the performance of membrane systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the biofouling potential of two commercially available reference feed spacers and four modified feed spacers. The spacers were compared on hydraulic characterization and in biofouling studies with membrane fouling simulators (MFSs). The virgin feed spacer was characterized hydraulically by their resistance, measured in terms of feed channel pressure drop, performed by operating MFSs at varying feed water flow rates. Short-term (9 days) biofouling studies were carried out with nutrient dosage to the MFS feed water to accelerate the biofouling rate. Long-term (96 days) biofouling studies were done without nutrient dosage to the MFS feed water. Feed channel pressure drop was monitored and accumulation of active biomass was quantified by adenosine tri phosphate (ATP) determination. The six feed spacers were ranked on pressure drop (hydraulic characterization) and on biofouling impact (biofouling studies). Significantly different trends in hydraulic resistance and biofouling impact for the six feed spacers were observed. The same ranking for biofouling impact on the feed spacers was found for the (i) short-term biofouling study with nutrient dosage and the (ii) long-term biofouling study without nutrient dosage. The ranking for hydraulic resistance for six virgin feed spacers differed significantly from the ranking of the biofouling impact, indicating that hydraulic resistance of clean feed spacers does not predict the hydraulic resistance of biofouled feed spacers. Better geometric design of feed spacers can be a suitable approach to minimize impact of biofouling in spiral wound membrane systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Siddiqui
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
| | - S Lehmann
- LANXESS BU Liquid Purification Technologies, R&D Membranes, 06803, Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Germany.
| | - Sz S Bucs
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
| | - M Fresquet
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - L Fel
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - E I E C Prest
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - J Ogier
- LANXESS BU Liquid Purification Technologies, R&D Membranes, 06803, Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Germany.
| | - C Schellenberg
- LANXESS BU Liquid Purification Technologies, R&D Membranes, 06803, Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Germany.
| | - M C M van Loosdrecht
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - J C Kruithof
- Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911 MA, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.
| | - J S Vrouwenvelder
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629, HZ Delft, The Netherlands; Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911 MA, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.
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Fortunato L, Bucs S, Linares RV, Cali C, Vrouwenvelder JS, Leiknes T. Spatially-resolved in-situ quantification of biofouling using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and 3D image analysis in a spacer filled channel. J Memb Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2016.11.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Spatial heterogeneity of biofouling under different cross-flow velocities in reverse osmosis membrane systems. J Memb Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2016.08.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Farhat NM, Vrouwenvelder JS, Van Loosdrecht MCM, Bucs SS, Staal M. Effect of water temperature on biofouling development in reverse osmosis membrane systems. WATER RESEARCH 2016; 103:149-159. [PMID: 27450353 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the factors that determine the spatial and temporal biofilm development is a key to formulate effective control strategies in reverse osmosis membrane systems for desalination and wastewater reuse. In this study, biofilm development was investigated at different water temperatures (10, 20, and 30 °C) inside a membrane fouling simulator (MFS) flow cell. The MFS studies were done at the same crossflow velocity with the same type of membrane and spacer materials, and the same feed water type and nutrient concentration, differing only in water temperature. Spatially resolved biofilm parameters such as oxygen decrease rate, biovolume, biofilm spatial distribution, thickness and composition were measured using in-situ imaging techniques. Pressure drop (PD) increase in time was used as a benchmark as to when to stop the experiments. Biofilm measurements were performed daily, and experiments were stopped once the average PD increased to 40 mbar/cm. The results of the biofouling study showed that with increasing feed water temperature (i) the biofilm activity developed faster, (ii) the pressure drop increased faster, while (iii) the biofilm thickness decreased. At an average pressure drop increase of 40 mbar/cm over the MFS for the different feed water temperatures, different biofilm activities, structures, and quantities were found, indicating that diagnosis of biofouling of membranes operated at different or varying (seasonal) feed water temperatures may be challenging. Membrane installations with a high temperature feed water are more susceptible to biofouling than installations fed with low temperature feed water.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Farhat
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
| | - J S Vrouwenvelder
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ, Delft, The Netherlands; Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911 MA, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - M C M Van Loosdrecht
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Sz S Bucs
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - M Staal
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ, Delft, The Netherlands
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Teepakorn C, Grenier D, Fiaty K, Charcosset C. Characterization of hydrodynamics in membrane chromatography devices using magnetic resonance imaging and computational fluid dynamics. Chem Eng Res Des 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cherd.2016.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Matar G, Gonzalez-Gil G, Maab H, Nunes S, Le-Clech P, Vrouwenvelder J, Saikaly PE. Temporal changes in extracellular polymeric substances on hydrophobic and hydrophilic membrane surfaces in a submerged membrane bioreactor. WATER RESEARCH 2016; 95:27-38. [PMID: 26981765 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.02.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Membrane surface hydrophilic modification has always been considered to mitigating biofouling in membrane bioreactors (MBRs). Four hollow-fiber ultrafiltration membranes (pore sizes ∼0.1 μm) differing only in hydrophobic or hydrophilic surface characteristics were operated at a permeate flux of 10 L/m(2) h in the same lab-scale MBR fed with synthetic wastewater. In addition, identical membrane modules without permeate production (0 L/m(2) h) were operated in the same lab-scale MBR. Membrane modules were autopsied after 1, 10, 20 and 30 days of MBR operation, and total extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) accumulated on the membranes were extracted and characterized in detail using several analytical tools, including conventional colorimetric tests (Lowry and Dubois), liquid chromatography with organic carbon detection (LC-OCD), fluorescence excitation - emission matrices (FEEM), fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM). The transmembrane pressure (TMP) quickly stabilized with higher values for the hydrophobic membranes than hydrophilic ones. The sulfonated polysulfone (SPSU) membrane had the highest negatively charged membrane surface, accumulated the least amount of foulants and displayed the lowest TMP. The same type of organic foulants developed with time on the four membranes and the composition of biopolymers shifted from protein dominance at early stages of filtration (day 1) towards polysaccharides dominance during later stages of MBR filtration. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling of LC-OCD data showed that biofilm samples clustered according to the sampling event (time) regardless of the membrane surface chemistry (hydrophobic or hydrophilic) or operating mode (with or without permeate flux). These results suggest that EPS composition may not be the dominant parameter for evaluating membrane performance and possibly other parameters such as biofilm thickness, porosity, compactness and structure should be considered in future studies for evaluating the development and impact of biofouling on membrane performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Matar
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Graciela Gonzalez-Gil
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; UNESCO-IHE, Department of Environmental Engineering and Water Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Husnul Maab
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suzana Nunes
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pierre Le-Clech
- UNESCO Centre for Membrane Science and Technology, University of New South Wales, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Johannes Vrouwenvelder
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Wetsus, European Center of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911 MA Leeuwarden, The Netherlands; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Pascal E Saikaly
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
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40
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Siddiqui A, Farhat N, Bucs SS, Linares RV, Picioreanu C, Kruithof JC, van Loosdrecht MCM, Kidwell J, Vrouwenvelder JS. Development and characterization of 3D-printed feed spacers for spiral wound membrane systems. WATER RESEARCH 2016; 91:55-67. [PMID: 26773488 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2015.12.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Revised: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Feed spacers are important for the impact of biofouling on the performance of spiral-wound reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF) membrane systems. The objective of this study was to propose a strategy for developing, characterizing, and testing of feed spacers by numerical modeling, three-dimensional (3D) printing of feed spacers and experimental membrane fouling simulator (MFS) studies. The results of numerical modeling on the hydrodynamic behavior of various feed spacer geometries suggested that the impact of spacers on hydrodynamics and biofouling can be improved. A good agreement was found for the modeled and measured relationship between linear flow velocity and pressure drop for feed spacers with the same geometry, indicating that modeling can serve as the first step in spacer characterization. An experimental comparison study of a feed spacer currently applied in practice and a 3D printed feed spacer with the same geometry showed (i) similar hydrodynamic behavior, (ii) similar pressure drop development with time and (iii) similar biomass accumulation during MFS biofouling studies, indicating that 3D printing technology is an alternative strategy for development of thin feed spacers with a complex geometry. Based on the numerical modeling results, a modified feed spacer with low pressure drop was selected for 3D printing. The comparison study of the feed spacer from practice and the modified geometry 3D printed feed spacer established that the 3D printed spacer had (i) a lower pressure drop during hydrodynamic testing, (ii) a lower pressure drop increase in time with the same accumulated biomass amount, indicating that modifying feed spacer geometries can reduce the impact of accumulated biomass on membrane performance. The combination of numerical modeling of feed spacers and experimental testing of 3D printed feed spacers is a promising strategy (rapid, low cost and representative) to develop advanced feed spacers aiming to reduce the impact of biofilm formation on membrane performance and to improve the cleanability of spiral-wound NF and RO membrane systems. The proposed strategy may also be suitable to develop spacers in e.g. forward osmosis (FO), reverse electrodialysis (RED), membrane distillation (MD), and electrodeionisation (EDI) membrane systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Siddiqui
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nadia Farhat
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Szilárd S Bucs
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rodrigo Valladares Linares
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Cristian Picioreanu
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Joop C Kruithof
- Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911 MA, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Mark C M van Loosdrecht
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - James Kidwell
- Conwed Plastics, 2810 Weeks Ave SE, Minneapolis 55414, USA
| | - Johannes S Vrouwenvelder
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC, Delft, The Netherlands; Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911 MA, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.
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41
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West S, Wagner M, Engelke C, Horn H. Optical coherence tomography for the in situ three-dimensional visualization and quantification of feed spacer channel fouling in reverse osmosis membrane modules. J Memb Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2015.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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42
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Filloux E, Wang J, Pidou M, Gernjak W, Yuan Z. Biofouling and scaling control of reverse osmosis membrane using one-step cleaning-potential of acidified nitrite solution as an agent. J Memb Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2015.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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43
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Farhat NM, Staal M, Siddiqui A, Borisov SM, Bucs SS, Vrouwenvelder JS. Early non-destructive biofouling detection and spatial distribution: Application of oxygen sensing optodes. WATER RESEARCH 2015; 83:10-20. [PMID: 26117369 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2015.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 06/07/2015] [Accepted: 06/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Biofouling is a serious problem in reverse osmosis/nanofiltration (RO/NF) applications, reducing membrane performance. Early detection of biofouling plays an essential role in an adequate anti-biofouling strategy. Presently, fouling of membrane filtration systems is mainly determined by measuring changes in pressure drop, which is not exclusively linked to biofouling. Non-destructive imaging of oxygen concentrations (i) is specific for biological activity of biofilms and (ii) may enable earlier detection of biofilm accumulation than pressure drop. The objective of this study was to test whether transparent luminescent planar O2 optodes, in combination with a simple imaging system, can be used for early non-destructive biofouling detection. This biofouling detection is done by mapping the two-dimensional distribution of O2 concentrations and O2 decrease rates inside a membrane fouling simulator (MFS). Results show that at an early stage, biofouling development was detected by the oxygen sensing optodes while no significant increase in pressure drop was yet observed. Additionally, optodes could detect spatial heterogeneities in biofouling distribution at a micro scale. Biofilm development started mainly at the feed spacer crossings. The spatial and quantitative information on biological activity will lead to better understanding of the biofouling processes, contributing to the development of more effective biofouling control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Farhat
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
| | - M Staal
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - A Siddiqui
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - S M Borisov
- Graz University of Technology, Institute of Analytical Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Stremayrgasse 9, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Sz S Bucs
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - J S Vrouwenvelder
- Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia; Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, The Netherlands; Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911 MA Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
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44
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Fridjonsson E, Vogt S, Vrouwenvelder J, Johns M. Early non-destructive biofouling detection in spiral wound RO membranes using a mobile earth׳s field NMR. J Memb Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2015.03.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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45
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Masse L, Puig-Bargués J, Mondor M, Deschênes L, Talbot G. Efficiency of EDTA, SDS and NaOH solutions to clean RO membranes processing swine wastewater. SEP SCI TECHNOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/01496395.2015.1062395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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46
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Wibisono Y, Yandi W, Golabi M, Nugraha R, Cornelissen ER, Kemperman AJB, Ederth T, Nijmeijer K. Hydrogel-coated feed spacers in two-phase flow cleaning in spiral wound membrane elements: a novel platform for eco-friendly biofouling mitigation. WATER RESEARCH 2015; 71:171-86. [PMID: 25616114 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2014.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Biofouling is still a major challenge in the application of nanofiltration and reverse osmosis membranes. Here we present a platform approach for environmentally friendly biofouling control using a combination of a hydrogel-coated feed spacer and two-phase flow cleaning. Neutral (polyHEMA-co-PEG10MA), cationic (polyDMAEMA) and anionic (polySPMA) hydrogels have been successfully grafted onto polypropylene (PP) feed spacers via plasma-mediated UV-polymerization. These coatings maintained their chemical stability after 7 days incubation in neutral (pH 7), acidic (pH 5) and basic (pH 9) environments. Anti-biofouling properties of these coatings were evaluated by Escherichia coli attachment assay and nanofiltration experiments at a TMP of 600 kPag using tap water with additional nutrients as feed and by using optical coherence tomography. Especially the anionic polySPMA-coated PP feed spacer shows reduced attachment of E. coli and biofouling in the spacer-filled narrow channels resulting in delayed biofilm growth. Employing this highly hydrophilic coating during removal of biofouling by two-phase flow cleaning also showed enhanced cleaning efficiency, feed channel pressure drop and flux recoveries. The strong hydrophilic nature and the presence of negative charge on polySPMA are most probably responsible for the improved antifouling behavior. A combination of polySPMA-coated PP feed spacers and two-phase flow cleaning therefore is promising and an environmentally friendly approach to control biofouling in NF/RO systems employing spiral-wound membrane modules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Wibisono
- University of Twente, Membrane Science and Technology, MESA+ Institute of Nanotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands; Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Wetra Yandi
- Linköping University, Division of Molecular Physics, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Mohsen Golabi
- Linköping University, Division of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Roni Nugraha
- Linköping University, Division of Molecular Physics, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emile R Cornelissen
- KWR Watercycle Research Institute, P.O. Box 1072, 3430 BB Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Antoine J B Kemperman
- University of Twente, Membrane Science and Technology, MESA+ Institute of Nanotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands.
| | - Thomas Ederth
- Linköping University, Division of Molecular Physics, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Kitty Nijmeijer
- University of Twente, Membrane Science and Technology, MESA+ Institute of Nanotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
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47
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Fridjonsson EO, Creber SA, Vrouwenvelder JS, Johns ML. Magnetic resonance signal moment determination using the Earth's magnetic field. JOURNAL OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE (SAN DIEGO, CALIF. : 1997) 2015; 252:145-150. [PMID: 25700116 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmr.2015.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate a method to manipulate magnetic resonance data such that the moments of the signal spatial distribution are readily accessible. Usually, magnetic resonance imaging relies on data acquired in so-called k-space which is subsequently Fourier transformed to render an image. Here, via analysis of the complex signal in the vicinity of the centre of k-space we are able to access the first three moments of the signal spatial distribution, ultimately in multiple directions. This is demonstrated for biofouling of a reverse osmosis (RO) membrane module, rendering unique information and an early warning of the onset of fouling. The analysis is particularly applicable for the use of mobile magnetic resonance spectrometers; here we demonstrate it using an Earth's magnetic field system.
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Affiliation(s)
- E O Fridjonsson
- School of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - S A Creber
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Royal Military College of Canada, PO Box 17000, Station Forces, Kingston, Ontario K7K 7B4, Canada
| | - J S Vrouwenvelder
- Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence of Sustainable Water Technology, Oostergoweg 9, 8911 MA Leeuwarden, The Netherlands; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, The Netherlands; Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - M L Johns
- School of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.
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48
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Wu J, Yu C, Li Q. Regenerable antimicrobial activity in polyamide thin film nanocomposite membranes. J Memb Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2014.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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49
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Bucs SS, Valladares Linares R, van Loosdrecht MCM, Kruithof JC, Vrouwenvelder JS. Impact of organic nutrient load on biomass accumulation, feed channel pressure drop increase and permeate flux decline in membrane systems. WATER RESEARCH 2014; 67:227-242. [PMID: 25282091 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2014.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The influence of organic nutrient load on biomass accumulation (biofouling) and pressure drop development in membrane filtration systems was investigated. Nutrient load is the product of nutrient concentration and linear flow velocity. Biofouling - excessive growth of microbial biomass in membrane systems - hampers membrane performance. The influence of biodegradable organic nutrient load on biofouling was investigated at varying (i) crossflow velocity, (ii) nutrient concentration, (iii) shear, and (iv) feed spacer thickness. Experimental studies were performed with membrane fouling simulators (MFSs) containing a reverse osmosis (RO) membrane and a 31 mil thick feed spacer, commonly applied in practice in RO and nanofiltration (NF) spiral-wound membrane modules. Numerical modeling studies were done with identical feed spacer geometry differing in thickness (28, 31 and 34 mil). Additionally, experiments were done applying a forward osmosis (FO) membrane with varying spacer thickness (28, 31 and 34 mil), addressing the permeate flux decline and biofilm development. Assessed were the development of feed channel pressure drop (MFS studies), permeate flux (FO studies) and accumulated biomass amount measured by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and total organic carbon (TOC). Our studies showed that the organic nutrient load determined the accumulated amount of biomass. The same amount of accumulated biomass was found at constant nutrient load irrespective of linear flow velocity, shear, and/or feed spacer thickness. The impact of the same amount of accumulated biomass on feed channel pressure drop and permeate flux was influenced by membrane process design and operational conditions. Reducing the nutrient load by pretreatment slowed-down the biofilm formation. The impact of accumulated biomass on membrane performance was reduced by applying a lower crossflow velocity and/or a thicker and/or a modified geometry feed spacer. The results indicate that cleanings can be delayed but are unavoidable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sz S Bucs
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, The Netherlands
| | - R Valladares Linares
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, The Netherlands
| | - M C M van Loosdrecht
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, The Netherlands
| | - J C Kruithof
- Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - J S Vrouwenvelder
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, The Netherlands; Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.
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50
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Dreszer C, Wexler AD, Drusová S, Overdijk T, Zwijnenburg A, Flemming HC, Kruithof JC, Vrouwenvelder JS. In-situ biofilm characterization in membrane systems using Optical Coherence Tomography: formation, structure, detachment and impact of flux change. WATER RESEARCH 2014; 67:243-54. [PMID: 25282092 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2014.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Revised: 08/03/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Biofouling causes performance loss in spiral wound nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membrane operation for process and drinking water production. The development of biofilm formation, structure and detachment was studied in-situ, non-destructively with Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) in direct relation with the hydraulic biofilm resistance and membrane performance parameters: transmembrane pressure drop (TMP) and feed-channel pressure drop (FCP). The objective was to evaluate the suitability of OCT for biofouling studies, applying a membrane biofouling test cell operated at constant crossflow velocity (0.1 m s(-1)) and permeate flux (20 L m(-2)h(-1)). In time, the biofilm thickness on the membrane increased continuously causing a decline in membrane performance. Local biofilm detachment was observed at the biofilm-membrane interface. A mature biofilm was subjected to permeate flux variation (20 to 60 to 20 L m(-2)h(-1)). An increase in permeate flux caused a decrease in biofilm thickness and an increase in biofilm resistance, indicating biofilm compaction. Restoring the original permeate flux did not completely restore the original biofilm parameters: After elevated flux operation the biofilm thickness was reduced to 75% and the hydraulic resistance increased to 116% of the original values. Therefore, after a temporarily permeate flux increase the impact of the biofilm on membrane performance was stronger. OCT imaging of the biofilm with increased permeate flux revealed that the biofilm became compacted, lost internal voids, and became more dense. Therefore, membrane performance losses were not only related to biofilm thickness but also to the internal biofilm structure, e.g. caused by changes in pressure. Optical Coherence Tomography proved to be a suitable tool for quantitative in-situ biofilm thickness and morphology studies which can be carried out non-destructively and in real-time in transparent membrane biofouling monitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Dreszer
- Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands; Biofilm Centre, University Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 5, 45141 Essen, Germany
| | - A D Wexler
- Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - S Drusová
- Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - T Overdijk
- Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - A Zwijnenburg
- Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - H-C Flemming
- Biofilm Centre, University Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstrasse 5, 45141 Essen, Germany
| | - J C Kruithof
- Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - J S Vrouwenvelder
- Wetsus, Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology, Agora 1, P.O. Box 1113, 8900 CC Leeuwarden, The Netherlands; Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Julianalaan 67, 2628 BC Delft, The Netherlands; King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Water Desalination and Reuse Center, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia.
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