EFFECT OF A VARIABLE SOLUTE DISTRIBUTION COEFFICIENT ON MASS SEPARATION IN HOLLOW FIBERS

The effect of a variable solute distribution coefficient on mass transfer in a hollow fiber separator is analyzed. This problem arises when liquid membranes are utilized in porous hollow fibers for mass separation. An example is the removal of toxic phenolic solutes from water. A variable solute distribution coefficient in the liquid membrane can have a significant effect on the separation performance of a hollow fiber module if the wall Sherwood number is less than 10. A distribution coefficient which increases with solute concentration gives increased mass transfer, and hence better separation, in comparison to a constant distribution coefficient. Vice versa, a distribution coefficient which decreases with solute concentration gives reduced separation in a hollow fiber module, particularly in the inlet region of the module.