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Optimizing electroactive membrane performance for microalgae harvesting: A response surface methodology study of
Azeem Mushtaq1, Hoon Cho2, Asma Batool3
1Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea; School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong; Department of Chemical Engineering, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, Pakistan.
Electroactive membranes on stainless steel mesh (SSM) effectively harvest microalgae, overcoming traditional membrane fouling. Optimized electrodeposition and electro-filtration parameters achieved over 90% rejection efficiency and improved flux recovery.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Traditional filtration membranes suffer from persistent fouling, limiting their efficiency and lifespan.
- Electroactive membranes offer a promising solution to mitigate fouling and enhance separation processes.
- Microalgae harvesting is crucial for biofuel production and wastewater treatment, but efficient methods are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize electroactive metallic films on stainless steel mesh (SSM) for microalgae harvesting.
- To investigate the impact of electrodeposition and electro-filtration parameters on membrane performance.
- To determine optimal operating conditions for efficient and high-flux microalgae separation.
Main Methods:
- Thin electroactive metallic films were fabricated on SSM using electrodeposition.
- Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize electrodeposition and electro-filtration parameters.
- Microalgae harvesting performance was evaluated under continuous and intermittent electro-filtration modes.
Main Results:
- Optimal electrodeposition parameters: 1000 μA/cm² current density and 5 min deposition time.
- Optimal electro-filtration parameters: 20 V/mm electric field strength and 1 min application time.
- Achieved >90% experimental rejection efficiency with maximized flux recovery.
Conclusions:
- The developed electroactive SSM membranes are effective for microalgae harvesting.
- Optimized electrodeposition and electro-filtration parameters significantly enhance performance.
- This study provides valuable insights for improving membrane-based microalgae harvesting systems.
