Membrane air stripping: A process for removal of organics from aqueous solutions

The membrane air-stripping (MAS) process using microporous polypropylene hollow fiber membranes has shown potential for the removal of volatile organics from aqueous streams over conventional treatment processes, particularly in reducing the size of the equipment. This paper reviews the theoretical aspects and experimental investigations on the performance of these membranes in terms of overall mass transfer capabilities in the removal of organics from aqueous solutions. The reported findings of the effect of pH, ozone, chlorine, influence of packing density and possible fouling on the performance of these hollow fibers membranes are presented. The fate of the stripped air is discussed. Other possible applications as well as the future research needs are highlighted, along with a critical assessment of the reported work.