Structure and performance of nanofiltration membrane prepared in a large-scale at CSIR-CSMCRI using indigenous coating unit

The paper presents the fundamental and performance study of poly (piperazine-trimesamide) based thin film composite NF membranes prepared in a large scale (0.5 m × 30 m scale) in a continuous mode using indigenously developed membrane casting and coating units. Different preparation parameters were optimized. Membrane modules of sizes 4 × 14 and 2 × 10 (inches × inches) were fabricated in spiral wound configurations. NF membrane modules showed product water flux up to 73 ± 20 l/m2.h at 150 psi and MgSO4 rejection of 95 ± 4%. The membranes maintained rejection ratio of 3 to 4.1 between divalent and monovalent anions. Almost a total rejection of ampicillin is observed by these membranes signifying their applicability in purification of pharmaceutically contaminated water.

► Nanofiltration membranes indigenously prepared in a large scale. ► Spiral wound modules of sizes 4 × 14 and 2 × 10 (inches × inches) fabricated. ► Exhibited product water flux up to 73 l/m2.h at 150 psi and MgSO4 rejection of 96%. ► Exhibited almost a total rejection of ampicillin.