Analysis of particle fouling during microfiltration by use of blocking models

Abstract Particle fouling mechanisms in “dead-end” microfiltration is analyzed using blocking models. The blocking index and resistance coefficient of the models during microfiltration are calculated under various conditions. The major factors affecting these model parameters, such as the filtration rate, the amount of particles simultaneously arriving at the membrane surface and particle accumulation, are discussed thoroughly. Instead of the four different blocking models previously proposed, a membrane blocking chart is established for relating the blocking index, filtration rate, and particle accumulation. Blocking index variation during microfiltration can be interpreted using this chart. Membrane blocking occurs during the initial filtration periods until the condition reaches a critical value; then, the blocking index suddenly drops to zero by following up the cake filtration model. Once the normalized resistance coefficient is regressed to an exponential function of the blocking index under a wide range of conditions, the blocking models can be used to quantitatively explain filtration flux attenuation by solving a unitary mathematical equation. Comparing the experimental filtration rates obtained under different conditions with the simulated results reveals a good agreement between them and demonstrates the reliability of this analysis method.