Functionalized Ceramic Membranes for the Separation of Organics from Raw Water and Methods of Filtration Using Functionalized Ceramic Membranes

Abstract

Components, systems and methods for producing hydrophilitic, functionalized inorganic filtration membranes, pre-treating organic and biological-containing waste waters for minimal membrane fouling and scaling when processed using such functionalized membranes, and use of such functionalized membranes of the present invention in filtration systems for separating such pre-treated waste waters, all with respect to optimal permeate production rates, purity of permeate and resistance to fouling and scale formation on the membranes.

Description

CITATION TO PRIOR APPLICATION[0001]The present application is a continuation application of, and claims priority to U.S. Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 14 / 084,122, entitled “Functionalized Ceramic Membranes for the Separation of Organics from Raw Water and Methods of Filtration Using Functionalized Ceramic Membranes” and filed Nov. 19, 2013, which claims priority for purposes of this application to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 728,574, “Functionalized Ceramic Membranes for the Separation of Organics from Raw Water and Methods of Filtration Using Functionalized Ceramic Membranes” and filed Nov. 20, 2012.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the Invention[0002]The present invention pertains to apparatuses and methods for separation of constituents of a multi-constituent liquid solution or suspension.Background Information[0003]Developing methods and apparatus for separating organics (oil & greases, and biological materials) from raw water streams is important in many in...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a new method for filtering raw water that reduces the number of steps, saves money, and reduces energy consumption. It also improves the overall quality of the water. This method can lead to higher levels of compliance with environmental regulations and can be used in a range of industries. Overall, this invention provides a more efficient way to filter raw water, which can help improve the overall performance and profitability of the process.

Problems solved by technology

A significant drawback of membrane purification, however, is membrane fouling.

However, industry has yet to achieve a suitably hydrophilic membrane that also meets other necessary or desirable performance characteristics.

However, many of these methods have limitations that the present inventor now can show are avoidable.

However, currently available ceramic membranes require very small pores (≤50 nm) for hydrocarbon / water separation.

Such small pore sizes tend to decrease fluid flow rate and promote clogging.

Furthermore, typical ceramic membranes are readily fouled by biological material from viruses, bacteria, and proteins.

Attempts to overcome these small-pore issues results in other problems, including requirements for high flow rate pressures (involving higher equipment costs and energy consumption), or the need for less effective, much larger membrane pores.

With fouling comes low net permeate rates, requirements for back-flushing of the permeate to clear the membrane, and often a shortened service life of the membrane (with associated elevated costs).

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