Bernardes, Adriana Filipe; (2025) Nature-Inspired Hydrodynamic Techniques to Enhance Membrane Separation Performance. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

With a significant portion of the global population already experiencing water stress – alongside rising population levels, improving living standards, and the increasing frequency and intensity of climate change impacts – the security of freshwater resources has become critical. Membrane filtration plays a key role in water treatment thanks to its energy efficiency and compact design. However, membrane fouling continues to pose a major operational challenge. Tackling this issue is essential for ensuring sustainable water management in the face of growing scarcity. Natural filtration processes, such as blood filtration in the kidneys, oxygen transport in the lungs, and the filter-feeding mechanisms of certain organisms, demonstrate highly efficient membrane filtration systems. Their effectiveness likely stems from a combination of factors, including the system's hydrodynamic conditions. Drawing inspiration from these biological systems, this work investigates the impact of hydrodynamic techniques on membrane filtration. Since hydrodynamics can be shaped by various elements, this document specifically examines the effects of operational mode, flow type, and membrane module geometry. The study showed that filtration method, module geometry, and flow type critically affect efficiency and fouling resistance. Crossflow excels for high-foulant feeds, while curved in-series modules improve anti-fouling. Constant flow generally surpassed pulsatile flow in simulations, though pulsation parameters may alter outcomes. Directional flow changes, especially in coiled single-bend modules with pulsed flow, enhanced fouling control. Crossflow showed ~30% higher permeance than dead-end, with far better silica fouling resistance – retaining 80% of initial flux vs. near-total loss in dead-end systems. A single-bend coiled module with pulsating flow boosted permeance by 10%, with only a 2.1 Pa pressure rise and minimal (2%) anti-fouling trade-off versus constant-flow designs. This research lays the groundwork for enhancing the anti-fouling performance of membranes. Furthermore, incorporating additional nature-inspired strategies across different scales holds the potential to further advance this technology.

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