A coagulation–MF system for water treatment using ceramic membranes

The results of studies are presented on the treatment of natural waters with a high content of organic compounds. The research involved unit processes of coagulation, microfiltration, and the hybrid process coagulation–sedimentation–microfiltration. In the membrane filtration process 19-channnel ceramic membranes manufactured by Orelis (France) were used. Simulated water containing humic acids in an amount of 20 and 30 mg/l was also used. Four coagulants were tested for which optimal process parameters were determined experimentally. The effectiveness of coagulation and microfiltration and that of the hybrid system coagulation–membrane filtration was tested, based on measurements of the membrane yield (permeate flux) and physicochemical analysis of raw water and permeates. The application of the hybrid system combining coagulation and microfiltration offers better removal of organic pollution (100% for TOC).