Studying Fluid Characteristics Atop Surface Patterned Membranes via Particle Image Velocimetry

Abstract

AbstractSurface patterning is a recent promising approach to promote performance of pressure‐driven membranes in water treatment and desalination. Nevertheless, knowledge about foulant deposition mechanisms, especially at early stage of filtration, is still lacking. The applicability of particle imaging velocimetry to study fluid characteristics atop surface patterned thin‐film composite membranes was investigated at different operating conditions. This work is an important first step toward reliable understanding of the impacts of topographical membrane surface modification on hydrodynamic conditions and foulant deposition mechanisms.