Membrane separation

Membrane processes use the micro- or ultrafiltration together with nanofiltration or reverse osmosis.

Microfiltration and ultrafiltration involve stopping the particles on the semi-permeable membranes with micro pores. Depending on the separation spectrum the membranes may stop not only suspended matter and colloids ranging in size from 0.001 to 0.1 micrometer, but also viruses and bacteria. They also prevent clogging on the next stages of the separation process.

The reverse osmosis is the process opposite to the process of natural osmosis, in which clear water mixes with saline water until the process is stopped by the dynamic equilibrium being established on both sides of the membrane. Reverse osmosis, as a pressurized process, allows for separating salt from water on the membrane.

Membrane processes also facilitate the separation of non-standard substances, e.g. phenolics, alcohols and other endocrine disruptors, e.g.:

• Biphenols;
• Bisphenols;
• Phthalates.

 

The degree of purification achieved by means of the membrane processes can be improved by appropriate combining them with other physicochemical or biological methods.