Abstract
The investigations on the influence of TiO2 photocatalyst (Aeroxide® P25) loading, feed cross-flow velocity (CFV) and feed water composition on the fouling of ceramic TiO2 ultrafiltration membrane and removal of humic acids (HA) in a photocatalytic membrane reactor (PMR) are presented. Moreover, the stability of the ceramic membrane after 400h of operation in the PMR is discussed. In case of model solution of HA in ultrapure water it was revealed that by an increase of TiO2 loading from 0.5 to 1.5g/dm3 the membrane fouling can be avoided. Alkaline conditions (pH 9) had a negative influence on the permeate flux and humic acids removal, whereas at pH 3 and pH 6.5 no membrane fouling was noticed. In the presence of HCO3−, SO42− and HPO42− at both low and high concentrations the membrane fouling was more severe than in the absence of these species, what was attributed to a lower efficiency of HA removal in the feed. Addition of Ca2+ and Mg2+ to the feed containing the inorganic anions allowed to improve the efficiency of HA removal and reduce membrane fouling. After 400h of PMR operation a deterioration of membrane separation properties was observed what was attributed to the abrasive action of photocatalyst particles.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
