Dynamic cross-flow filtration of oilfield produced water by rotating ceramic filter discs

摘要

The purpose of this research paper is to assess the effects of the process parameters-membrane rotational speed (1,200, 1,500 and 1,800 rpm), volume concentration factor (VCF) and feed characteristics-in terms of oil and total organic carbon (TOC) separation capability, permeability and permeate quality. For this, a series of membrane filtration experiments were carried out systematically using rotating ceramic filter discs in a fed-batch operating mode. The variation of membrane rotational speed was found to minimize the membrane fouling in a significant amount. High oil (>99%) and TOC rejection (>98%) was achieved with both microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) membranes, independent of the rotational speed and the feed concentration The experimental results are presented for the dynamic cross-flow MF (0.2-μm pores) and UF (7-nm pores) of oilfield produced water as well as oily model solutions (OMS).