A critical review of transport through osmotic membranes

Jinwen Wang, Derrick S. Dlamini, Ajay K. Mishra, Mary Theresa M. Pendergast, Mavis C.Y. Wong, Bhekie B. Mamba, Viatcheslav Freger, Arne R.D. Verliefde, Eric M.V. Hoek

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

280 Scopus citations

Abstract

Herein, we review mechanisms and models of solute transport relevant to nanofiltration (NF), reverse osmosis (RO), and forward osmosis (FO) membrane separation processes. We first consider state of the art polymeric NF, RO, and FO membrane properties and how these properties influence water and solute transport. Next, we critically review classical models (i.e., pore flow, solution-diffusion, and Nernst-Planck) and discuss the shortcomings of each, particularly focusing on their inability to explain fundamental relationships between water/solute transport and membrane properties, such as free volume, crystallinity, extent of swelling, and the presence of filler materials in mixed matrix/nanocomposite membranes. We then review modern structure-performance models that attempt to relate water/solute transport to quantifiable membrane structure and solute/water/polymer interactions. Finally, we consider both classical and modern mass transfer models that describe external, internal, and enhanced concentration polarization - all of which strongly influence water/solute transport through NF, RO, and FO membranes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)516-537
Number of pages22
JournalJournal of Membrane Science
Volume454
DOIs
StatePublished - 15 Mar 2014
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Forward osmosis
  • Membrane transport
  • Nanofiltration
  • Reverse osmosis
  • Structure-performance

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry
  • General Materials Science
  • Physical and Theoretical Chemistry
  • Filtration and Separation

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