Computational modeling of discrete-object feed spacers attached directly onto reverse osmosis membranes for enhanced module packing capacity and improved hydrodynamics

Zhou, Zuo; Ladner, David A.

doi:10.1016/j.seppur.2022.121727

Cited by 10 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 46 publications

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“…A novel feed spacer design is proposed having airfoil-shaped filaments with NACA1410 profile 25 . To the best of our knowledge, the only attempt at using airfoil shape in filtration technologies was the attachment of airfoil discrete-object features to the membrane surface with the aim to numerically optimize the feed channel thickness for increased membrane packing capacity 26 . Our airfoil spacer design holds the inherent advantage that it can manipulate filtration performance by altering the localized hydrodynamics by adjusting the AOA of the airfoil without affecting the channel porosity.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Airfoil-shaped filament feed spacer for improved filtration performance in water treatment

Qamar

Kerdi

Vrouwenvelder

et al. 2023

Sci Rep

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Optimal spacer design enhances the filtration performance in spiral-wound modules by controlling the local hydrodynamics inside the filtration channel. A novel airfoil feed spacer design fabricated using 3D-printing technology is proposed in this study. The design is a ladder-shaped configuration with primary airfoil-shaped filaments facing the incoming feed flow. The airfoil filaments are reinforced by cylindrical pillars supporting the membrane surface. Laterally, all the airfoil filaments are connected by thin cylindrical filaments. The performances of the novel airfoil spacers are evaluated at Angle of Attack (AOA) of 10° (A-10 spacer) and 30° (A-30 spacer) and compared with commercial (COM) spacer. At fixed operating conditions, simulations indicate steady-state hydrodynamics inside the channel for A-10 spacer, while an unsteady state is found for A-30 spacer. Numerical wall shear stress for airfoil spacers is uniformly distributed and has a higher magnitude than the COM spacer. A-30 spacer design is the most efficient in ultrafiltration process with enhanced permeate flux (228%) and reduced specific energy consumption (23%) and biofouling development (74%) as characterized by Optical Coherence Tomography. Results systematically demonstrate the influential role of airfoil-shaped filaments for feed spacer design. Modifying AOA allows localized hydrodynamics to be effectively controlled according to the filtration type and operating conditions.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%