Abstract
A new method is proposed to increase the rejection in microfiltration by applying membrane oscillation, using a new type of microfiltration membrane with slotted pores. The oscillations applied to the membrane surface result in reduced membrane fouling and increased separation efficiency. An exact mathematical solution of the flow in the surrounding solution outside the oscillating membrane is developed. The oscillation results in the appearance of a lift velocity, which moves oil particles away from the membrane. The latter results in both reduced membrane fouling and increased oil droplet rejection. This developed model was supported by the experimental results for oil water separation in the produced water treatment. It was proven that the oil droplet concentration was reduced notably in the permeate, due to the membrane oscillation, and that the applied shear rate caused by the membrane oscillation also reduced pore blockage. A four-times lower oil concentration was recorded in the permeate when the membrane vibration frequency was 25 Hz, compared to without membrane vibration. Newly generated microfiltration membranes with slotted pores were used in the experiments.