Hybrid forward osmosis-membrane distillation system: Demonstration of technical feasibility

Zohrabian, Linnet, Hankins, Nicholas P. and Field, Robert (2020) Hybrid forward osmosis-membrane distillation system: Demonstration of technical feasibility. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 33. p. 101042. ISSN 2214-7144

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2019.101042

Abstract

The hybridisation of forward osmosis (FO) and membrane distillation (MD) has the potential to offer a solution to the increasing worldwide demand for clean water. However, accurate prediction of system behaviour, balancing of water transfer rates and the implementation of a suitable draw solution are needed to maximise permeate production. Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive mathematical tools available and further draw solution developments are required. In this study, an experimentally validated mathematical model was developed to simulate the FO-MD system. Draw solutes including sodium chloride (NaCl), tetraethylammonium bromide (TEAB) and polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDAC), were used to characterise individual FO and MD permeate fluxes. The FO-MD system was then run using 0.5 M NaCl, TEAB and PDAC. The results showed that fouling was more significant in FO, and water transfer rate imbalances were identified in all systems. The experimental results and model were used to predict MD feed temperature and cross-flow velocity adjustments to achieve system water balance for each draw solution. As a result of this balancing, permeate production using NaCl, TEAB and PDAC was enhanced. This study suggests that the FO-MD system is a promising candidate for water purification when system performance is optimised through mathematical modelling.

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: Research funded by Leverhulme Trust, APEX
Uncontrolled Keywords: Forward osmosis, Membrane distillation, Hybrid system, Mathematical modelling, Draw solution, Water transfer rate balancing
Subjects: H300 Mechanical Engineering
H900 Others in Engineering
Department: Faculties > Engineering and Environment > Mechanical and Construction Engineering
Depositing User: Rachel Branson
Date Deposited: 19 Jul 2021 14:42
Last Modified: 31 Jul 2021 10:06
URI: http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/46709

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