Performance of nanotechnology-based membranes in the removal of pathogens and organic micropollutants

In this project we test the performances of new nanotechnology-based membranes. KWR does not itself develop membranes: the project uses new commercial nanotechnology membranes and nanotechnology membranes developed by universities and/or knowledge institutes (partners in the Nanopur consortium). The objective is to determine the technical and economic performances of new nanotechnology-based (micro- and ultrafiltration) membranes in the removal of pathogens and organic micropollutants in drinking water treatment. We work on the basis of a go/no-go decision point for each of the research projects on nanotechnology membranes, in light of the basic performance data.

Schematic representation of a RO membrane with a nano-composite active layer. Source: LG Chem.

Laboratory scale performance tests

Performance tests are carried out by KWR (and other partners) on a laboratory scale. For the successful products, we then extrapolate the tests to full-scale conditions, using scaling-up models to test the feasibility of the new nanotechnology membranes. At a later stage of the Nanopur project, we will possibly test membranes on a pilot scale at end-users.

Performance of new nanotechnology membranes

The project’s deliverables are:

• An evaluation of the performance of new nanotechnology membranes in the removal of pathogens and organic micropollutants in drinking water treatment.
• A scaling-up of laboratory results to full-scale for successful products, using an existing model.
• An evaluation of the costs and economic feasibility of the successful tested membranes (including a go/no-go decision point for the tested membranes).
• A report or publication on the performance of the new nanotechnology membranes.