No abstract

In the present study, the possibility of using a spiral-wound diffusion dialysis module was studied for the separation of hydrochloric acid and Zn2+, Ni2+, Cr3+, and Fe2+ salts. Diffusion dialysis recovered 68% of free HCl from the spent pickling solution contaminated with heavy-metal-ion salts. A higher volumetric flowrate of the stripping medium recovered a more significant portion of free acid, namely, 77%. Transition metals (Fe, Ni, Cr) apart from Zn were rejected by >85%. Low retention of Zn (35%) relates to the diffusion of negatively charged chloro complexes through the anion-exchange membrane. The mechanical and transport properties of dialysis FAD-PET membrane under accelerated degradation conditions was investigated. Long-term tests coupled with the economic study have verified that diffusion dialysis is a suitable method for the treatment of spent acids, the salts of which are well soluble in water. Calculations predict significant annual OPEX savings, approximately up to 58%, favouring diffusion dialysis for implementation into wastewater management.

The integrated electrodialysis (ED) process supports valorisation of a lactose-rich side stream from the dairy industry, creating an important source of milk sugar used in various branches of the industry. This work focuses on the optimization of the downstream processes before the crystallization of lactose. The process line includes a pre-treatment and desalination by ED of the industrial waste solution of the lactose mother liquor (LML). The LML was diluted to 25% total solids to overcome hydraulic issues with the ED desalination process. Two different levels of electrical conductivity reduction (70% and 90%) of the LML solutions were applied to decrease the mineral components and organic acids of the LML samples. The ED performance parameters such as ash transfer rate (J), the specific capacity (CF) of the ED and specific electric energy consumption (E) were determined and the influence of the LML solution on the monopolar ion-exchange membranes has been investigated. A higher degree of desalination is associated with higher electric energy consumption (by 50%) and lower specific capacity (by 40%). A noticeable decrease (by 12.8%) in the resistance of the anion exchange membranes was measured after the trials whereas the resistance of the cation exchange membranes remained practically unchanged. Any deposition of the alkaline earth metals on the membrane surface was not observed.