THEORETICAL MODIFICATION OF THE FINELY POROUS MODEL FOR REVERSE-OSMOSIS TRANSPORT

One of the most significant models used to describe and predict the performance of reverse osmosis type membranes is the finely porous model (FPM). In this paper, the basic assumptions of the model are examined and modified. The two most serious problems with FPM are that an incorrect form of material balance on the solute is used and that the osmotic pressure effects are not completely taken into account for electrolytes. A modified model (called MD-FPM), which is based on the same physical precepts is derived. Equations describing the concentration profile for both models have been derived and compared. It has been shown that the FPM can predict physically unacceptable results. Difficulties in using the parameters from the model for prediction or for membrane development work are discussed. Simulation results for the MD-FPM model are consistent with what is expected for reverse osmosis type membranes.