ULTRAFILTRATION OF WHEY-PROTEIN SOLUTIONS IN SPACER-FILLED FLAT CHANNELS

Ultrafiltration of whey protein solutions was performed to determine the relationship between spacer characteristics and fouling. It has been shown that spacers can increase flux by a factor greater than 7. Electron microscopy shows no observable differences in the amount of protein deposited on the membrane surface for the different spacer configurations. Results suggest that the spacer's ability to reduce concentration polarization is the main fouling control factor. The previously identified optimal design for relatively non-fouling solutes is also optimal for feeds with fouling solutes. The kinetics of membrane cleaning were investigated and the results indicate that caustic/chlorine cleaning is not significantly affected by hydrodynamics or spacer characteristics.