Modeling the effect of biofilm formation on reverse osmosis performance: Flux, feed channel pressure drop and solute passage

▶ Derived 2-d numerical model with flow, mass transport and biofilm development in RO systems. ▶ The model explains loss of permeate flux and increase of salt passage in time due to biofouling. ▶ Suggest places where most biomass accumulation is expected for different spacer geometry. ▶ Biofilms increase polarization, resistance to trans-membrane flow and feed channel pressure drop. ▶ Biofilm-enhanced concentration polarization determines permeate flux decline for brackish water.