Influence of membrane fouling on rejection of trace organics by NF/RO membranes: the 'membrane-in-series' model

摘要

This paper introduces a new model that describes the influence of membrane fouling by model organic foulants on rejection of selected trace organic pollutants. The model schematically and mathematically describes solute transport through the membrane, as well as the fouling layer. The model is able to explain both increases, as well as decreases in rejection as a result of the formation of the fouling layer, both phenomena being observed in practice as well.