Organophilic pervaporation: prospects and performance

Abstract

Among the different membrane processes, organophilic pervaporation is one of the most promising technologies for environmental applications. The aim of this paper is to give a thorough introduction to organophilic pervaporation in the context of wastewater treatment. The emerging process of organophilic pervaporation is introduced together with other membrane processes relevant for environmental applications. With regard to the performance of pervaporation, an engineering model is presented which will enable ready assessment of process and module design. Sorption and coupled diffusion are covered in the model. Selection criteria for membranes and transport resistances for the mass transport as key process engineering parameters are included. The influences of permeate pressure and temperature upon performance are discussed and a description of commercial pervaporation modules given. Following a brief description of the hierarchy of waste management practice, guidelines for applying and integrating pervaporation into a process are proposed. The importance of considering hybrid processes is highlighted. A case study for phenol recovery with water treatment to 5 ppm is considered. Finally, present restrictions on the use of pervaporation in wastewater treatment such as (a) the unavailability of appropriate membranes and (b) fouling of the membrane are discussed and approaches to overcome the restrictions are presented.