A two-dimensional model for the spiral wound reverse osmosis membrane module

A new two-dimensional (2-D) model for a spiral wound reverse osmosis membrane is proposed to improve the prediction of system variables profiles inside the flow channel. A detailed pressure distribution equation was incorporated into the 2-D mass and momentum balance equations. Two tuning factors were introduced into the model to represent the mass transfer enhancement and the pressure drop increase by the spacer. The performance of the proposed 2-D model was investigated by comparing simulation results with those obtained using a 2-D CFD model and the Song-Elimelech's 1-D model and through a sensitivity analysis.