This powerpoint presentation begins by providing background information on the fouling of microfiltration/ultrafiltration (MF/UF) membranes by natural organic matter (NOM), and the role of
NOM gel layer. The use of coagulants/adsorbents in conjunction with
membranes is presented, focusing on the following:
goals and underlying principle;
experience with conventional coagulants/adsorbents; and,
experience with HAOPs. The importance of the adsorbent dosing procedure is presented, along with identifying and testing potential mechanisms for
fouling reduction by adsorbents, focusing on
location of key processes (NOM and foulant deposition), and the
effect of different adsorbent dosing strategies. The presentation presents the Hypothesis for Effect of Gel Formation
and Enhancements by Pre-Deposition that includes the following points:
gel comprised of molecules that compete with
foulants for binding sites on adsorbent;
gel formation reduces competition in adsorbent
layer and thereby delays breakthrough of foulant; and,
in batch adsorption prior to direct filtration, gel-forming
molecules compete and reduce removal of
foulant, so foulant reaches membrane faster,
leading to faster fouling. Includes figures.