Membrane technology enhancement in oil–water separation. A review

• Chemical composition and effects of oily wastewater
• Polymeric and ceramic membrane for wastewater oily treatment
• Effect of surface modification and effect of operating parameters of the membrane performance
• Combined systems with membrane separation and future outlook for removal of oily wastewater

Membrane separation processes have become an emerging technology for the treatment of oily wastewater due to high oil removal efficiency and relatively facile operational process. This review will highlight the recent development of advanced membrane technology such as surface modification, addition of inorganic particles in polymer membrane and the development of ceramic membranes. Additionally, the effect of operating parameters on the membrane performance is discussed in detail. Future outlooks in oil–water membrane separation are also discussed to further broaden the research and development related to this technology.