Method and System for Enhanced Osmotic Mass Transfer

摘要

A mass transfer process and device are provided that benefits enhanced mass transfer through a membrane as well as maintenance of membrane cleanliness via membrane surface vibration. Uniform amplitude and frequency vibration of the entire membrane in parallel to mass flux reduces internal and external concentration polarization, thereby improving mass flux, especially osmotic driven flux, through the membrane while affording minimal mechanical stress to the membrane. Vibration is provided by piezoelectric imbued membrane support medium wherein vibration is incited by oscillating electric fields generated by electrodes concomitant with the membrane support medium.