Dielectrophoretically intensified cross-flow membrane filtration

Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is applied for the first time in cross-flow membrane filtration process to enhance the membrane performance and service life. The DEP force allows moving particles independently of their charge in an inhomogeneous electric field. Here a traction of particles opposite to the permeate flow direction was realized alleviating particle fouling and concentration polarization, thereby intensifying the filtration process. The inhomogenity of the electric field needed was realized using a bare grid electrode as membrane supporter and an insulated plate electrode on the opposite side. An optimized DEP intensified cross-flow membrane filtration process with an applied electric field of 160 V-eff/mm (ac) and 200 kHz demonstrated 3.3 times longer working time for membrane to have a 50% permeate flux of the initial (470 mL/(min m(2)) and an energy consumption of 31.3 kJ. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.