RO performance analysis of cellulose acetate and TFC polyamide membrane systems for separation of trace contaminants

Membrane systems combine a number of practical advantages and are considered a better alternative to conventional methods. Research on better membrane systems with respect to increased life and separation potential is still pursued though compact reverse osmosis systems are commercially available. Membrane systems capable of giving adequate solute separation under standard conditions require careful evaluation with respect to specific solutes under chosen conditions of operation, particularly separation of toxic constituents from trace level. Cellulose acetate and thin-film composite polyamide membrane systems are evaluated under identical conditions for their behaviour in separating trace contaminants such as copper, nickel and cobalt. The separation data obtained are presented and discussed. The RO performance is analyzed using Kimura-Sourirajan's transport equations.