Evaluation of Membrane Characterization Methods #4102

Project Summary: Will evaluate various available methods for measurement of membrane characteristics--including, at a minimum, surface roughness, charge, and liquid-membrane contact angle--in order to (1) determine the effect of measurement procedure on the variability of resulting measurements and (2) give utilities information on the value of such methods, means to compare membrane properties on an equal basis, and guidance for accurate contact angle measurements for integrity test calculations.

Project Details RFP Abstract Scope of Work Project Update Participants Supporting Resources Project Profile / Order Report

Contractor: University of Nevada at Reno

Collaborative Partners: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency  

Project Manager: Jonathan Cuppett

Funded: 2007              Completion Year: 2010              Funding Amount: $399,923.00

Goal Area: Water Quality

Related Topics: Fouling,  Membrane Treatment,  Microfiltration,  Monitoring,  Nanofiltration,  Reverse Osmosis,  Treatment Technologies,  Ultrafiltration

Benefits to the Drinking Water Supply Community:
Evaluation of membrane-characterization techniques will facilitate comparison of published information on membrane contact angle, surface charge, and surface roughness measurements and how these characteristics relate to membrane performance and fouling. Such knowledge will enable water utilities to more effectively interpret membrane-property information provided by manufacturers. The information will have a regulatory benefit as well, given the need for contact-angle-measurement methods for integrity-test calculations used to receive membrane treatment credits.