Modeling of spiral wound membrane desalination modules and plants – review and research priorities

A novel retentate spacer geometry for improved spiral wound membrane (SWM) module performance

“…However, despite reported advantages regarding some of the aforementioned issues, these new spacer designs are characterized by considerable geometric complexity which might render quite costly their commercial production. Other disadvantages of some proposed novel spacer designs are related to their compressibility and the potential for damaging the membrane [22]. It should be noted that in a very recent numerical study of the full membrane-desalination problem [23], albeit in spatially restricted 2-D domain, the negative effects of membrane-spacer contact lines was confirmed; moreover, the benefits were demonstrated of placing cylindrical filaments at the mid-plane of retentate channels, thus creating symmetric flow constrictions, reducing CP effects.…”

Influence of the boundary conditions on heat and mass transfer in spacer-filled channels

“…CFD simulations of spacer-filled channels for membrane processes started to appear in the literature since the year 2001 and have been presented at an increasing rate since then. Hitsov et al [3], Fimbres-Wehis and Wiley [4], Karabelas et al [5] and La Cerva et al [6] have presented reviews addressing a number of issues in the modeling of such channels.…”

On some issues in the computational modelling of spacer-filled channels for membrane distillation

“…Karabelas et al [27] have presented reviews addressing a number of issues in the modeling of spacerfilled channels. In particular, Fimbres-Weihs and Wiley [26] examined problems concerning the definition of the dimensionless numbers that characterize the phenomenon, the use of periodic conditions, and the comparison of 3D vs. 2D and steady-state vs. transient simulations.…”