The drastic reduction of permeate flux due to membrane fouling and the high cost of membrane replacement pose a significant problem in water separation applications. In this investigation, a novel reactive electrochemical membrane (REM) was developed utilizing a conductive tubular Ti4O7 electrode material to alleviate irreversible fouling. Crossflow filtration experiments were conducted to evaluate the separation performance as a function of solution conditions and the applied electrical charge. Results indicate that the permeate water quality is affected by a combination of electrochemical reactions, adsorption, and electrostatics at the REM surface. Results will be presented from a series of experiments conducted with model organic and inorganic species to illustrate the utility of the REM for water treatment. Development of a state-of-the-art characterization protocol is being developed to elucidate fouling mechanisms and determine the dependence of applied electrical charge on membrane-foulant interactions.

Development of antifouling reactive electrochemical membranes for water treatment and water reuse

244th National Meeting (2012)

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