Membrane Separation Process Design

The use of membrane separation processes continues to grow at a rapid rate. Double digit growth rates are projected for a number of gas and liquid separations. This presentation reviews the unique properties of membrane separation processes which might recommend them for a particular application and fundamental design considerations.

The presentation is split into three parts. The first focuses on gas separations and the relationships between pressure ratio, selectivity, and staging. The second focuses on liquid separations and the relationships between pressure drop, concentration polarization, and fouling. Common concerns for gas and liquid separations are discussed, especially the need for feed pretreatment.

Finally, emerging interests in membrane separations related to sustainability are discussed. A number of applications have been proposed and the unique challenges of these applications are highlighted.