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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
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Three-Dimensionally Printed Microfluidic Cross-flow System for Ultrafiltration/Nanofiltration Membrane Performance Testing
Published on: February 13, 2016
Correlation between real sieving coefficient determined using novel lab-scale module and pore structure of
Mizuki Ichikawa1, Makoto Fukuda2,3, Takuma Morikawa1
1Graduate School of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University, 930 Nishimitani, Kinokawa, Wakayama, 649-6493, Japan.
Summary
A new lab-scale hollow fiber membrane module accurately characterizes hemodiafiltration membranes. This method precisely defines membrane performance by analyzing molecular weight cut-off and pore size, crucial for medical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Membrane Technology
Background:
- Hemodiafiltration (HDF) membranes are critical for treating kidney failure.
- Accurate characterization of HDF membrane performance is essential for patient safety and treatment efficacy.
- Existing methods for membrane characterization can be complex and time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel lab-scale hollow fiber membrane module for characterizing commercial HDF membranes.
- To determine the apparent sieving coefficient of polyethersulfone (Sample A) and polysulfone (Sample B) HDF membranes.
- To correlate membrane structure (pore size, porosity) with filtration performance.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a novel lab-scale hollow fiber membrane module.
- Determination of apparent sieving coefficients using dextran solutions with broad molecular weight distribution.
- Analysis of molecular weight cut-off curves as a function of filtration flow rate.
- Characterization of membrane morphology and surface porosity using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM).
Main Results:
- Smooth molecular weight cut-off curves were obtained, showing distinct variations with filtration flow rate.
- Equivalent pore diameters for both membranes were found to be nearly identical (~23 nm).
- Surface porosity of Sample A was higher than Sample B, but the difference was not statistically significant.
- FE-SEM findings were in excellent agreement with numerical data, highlighting subtle structural differences influencing sieving coefficients.
Conclusions:
- The novel lab-scale module provides a reliable method for defining HDF membrane performance.
- Subtle structural differences between membranes impact their sieving characteristics.
- This easily fabricated module offers a valuable tool for rigorous membrane characterization.
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