Membrane separation technology is the process of using a semi permeable membrane with selective separation function to separate, purify, concentrate, and clarify different components of liquid materials (or gases), which is called membrane separation process. It differs from traditional filtration in that the membrane can separate molecules and ions, and this process is a physical process that does not require a phase change.
According to their pore size or molecular weight cut-off, membranes can be divided into microfiltration membranes, ultrafiltration membranes, nanofiltration membranes, and reverse osmosis membranes. Depending on the material, they can be divided into inorganic membranes and organic membranes. Inorganic membranes mainly only have microfiltration grade membranes, mainly ceramic membranes and metal membranes. Organic film is made of polymer materials such as polyvinylidene fluoride, aromatic polyamide, polyether sulfone, and perfluoropolymer, and is currently the most widely used film material. Its main advantages are high packing density, easy operation, and consistent industry standards.
What are the advantages of membrane separation technology?
(1) The membrane separation process is carried out under pressure (or electricity) at room temperature, making it particularly suitable for the separation and concentration of heat sensitive substances such as fruit juice, enzymes, etc. It has strong adaptability in the fields of food industry, pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, etc;
(2) The membrane separation device is simple, easy to operate and control, convenient for maintenance, and has high separation efficiency. As a new type of water treatment method, it has the advantages of small footprint, high treatment efficiency, and high reliability compared to conventional water treatment methods;
(3) Membrane separation technology is not only suitable for the separation of organic and inorganic substances, from viruses, bacteria to particles, but also for the separation of many special solution systems, such as the separation of large molecules and inorganic salts in solutions, and the separation of some azeotropes or near boiling substances;
(4) The membrane separation process does not undergo phase changes and has lower energy consumption compared to other methods, making membrane separation technology an energy-saving technology.