Membrane Filtration Processes

Membrane filtration processes are a group of separation techniques that use semi-permeable membranes to filter substances in a liquid. These methods sort materials based on size, shape, charge, or other properties.

There are many types of membrane filtration processes. Depending on the membrane used, they can remove dissolved components, suspended solids, or emulsified oils. These techniques work especially well for process effluents that contain valuable contaminants. Such components can often be concentrated and recovered for reuse.

Membranes are typically made from polymers or ceramics. The type and pore size of a membrane determine the particles it can separate. As a result, membrane systems are generally classified according to their pore size.