The objective of this paper was to provide a framework for understanding fouling from a physicochemical
perspective.
Fouling results from interactions between fouling materials and membrane
medium, interactions between fouling materials, and interactions between fouling
materials and aquatic environments. Therefore, the understanding of those interactions is
the key to understanding the fouling phenomenon and it is the basis for developing better
products and processes to control fouling. At a very fundamental level, those interactions
can be classified and described based on physicochemical principles. Those interactions
include chemical binding, electrostatic, steric, van der Waals, and hydrophobic. A
discussion of how those interactions would relate to membrane fouling and the effects of
some physicochemical factors in an aquatic environment on membrane fouling is
presented.
Natural organic matter (NOM) has been identified as a major fouling component
for microfiltration and ultrafiltration membranes, especially when applied to surface
water filtration. This paper discusses the physicochemical properties of NOM, and how
those properties may affect fouling potential. A better understanding of fouling
mechanisms may help to develop more effective strategies for fouling control and prevention. Includes 35 references, table, figures.
| Edition : | Vol. - No. |
| File Size : | 1
file
, 310 KB |
| Note : | This product is unavailable in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus |
| Number of Pages : | 15 |
| Published : | 03/05/2003 |
