Reduced fouling of ultrafiltration membranes via surface fluorination

Journal Article · Fri Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1993 · Separation Science and Technology

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1080/01496399308019489· OSTI ID:145138

Sedath, R H; Taylor, D R; Li, N N ^[1]

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1. Allied-Signal Research and Technology, Des Plaines, IL (United States)

The fouling resistance of a polysulfone membrane can be improved by fluorination. In the filtration of potato waste streams, fluorination of polysulfone membranes has improved both the initial flux and fouling rates of the treated membranes. Selectivities of the membranes as measured by COD and total organic nitrogen rejection were not affected by the fluorination process. The fluorination process adds both fluorine and oxygen to the surface, and the increased oxygen and fluorine on the surface of the membrane increase the hydrophilic nature of the membrane. This increase of hydrophilicity reduces the rate of adsorption of hydrophobic foulants to the surface, decreasing the fouling rate. Increased hydrophilicity also decreases the capillary pressure and permits permeate flow through smaller pores.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: FC07-89ID12904
• OSTI ID: 145138
• Report Number(s): CONF-911049--
• Journal Information: Separation Science and Technology, Journal Name: Separation Science and Technology Journal Issue: 1-3 Vol. 28; ISSN 0149-6395; ISSN SSTEDS
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

40 CHEMISTRY
FLUORINATION
FOOD INDUSTRY
FOULING
MEMBRANES
POTATOES
SULFONES
SURFACES
ULTRAFILTRATION
WASTE WATER