NMR imaging of local cumulative permeate flux and local cake growth in submerged microfiltration processes

► The local permeate flux increases linearly towards the permeate extraction line. ► The cake layer is thicker close to the permeate extraction line. ► The cake growth increases as permeate flux or solids concentration increases. ► Cake removal is enhanced for higher air pressures and longer aeration sequences. ► The impact of air pressure on cake removal levels off for longer aeration cycles.