Crossflow membrane filtration system for operando fouling characterization using transmission x-ray scattering

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Membrane-based separations are crucial for wastewater treatment but suffer from membrane fouling.
• Current methods for studying fouling lack real-time, in-situ observation of dynamic processes.
• Understanding fouling evolution is key to improving membrane efficiency and longevity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate an operando system for real-time nanoscale characterization of membrane fouling.
• To investigate the mechanisms of nanoparticle fouling and mineral scaling under realistic operating conditions.
• To bridge the gap between nanoscale fouling behavior and macroscopic membrane performance.

Main Methods:

• A remotely controlled crossflow membrane system with a custom cell was designed.
• Operando transmission small/wide angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS) was employed for nanoscale analysis.
• Nanoparticle fouling in ultrafiltration and mineral scaling in reverse osmosis were investigated.

Main Results:

• Direct observation of nanoscale changes at the membrane surface during operation was achieved.
• Real-time tracking of membrane fouling under realistic conditions was demonstrated.
• Fundamental physical insights into fouling mechanisms influenced by water chemistry and operating conditions were gained.

Conclusions:

• The developed operando system provides unprecedented insights into dynamic membrane fouling.
• This approach enables a better understanding of the relationship between fouling mechanisms and membrane performance.
• The system serves as a platform for future in-situ studies and evaluation of novel membrane materials and processes.