Optimization of operating conditions in ultrafiltration process for produced water treatment via the full factorial design methodology

In order to optimize the ultrafiltration process for produced water treatment the main and interaction effects of three operating parameters like temperature, transmembrane pressure (TMP), and cross flow velocity (CFV) on permeate flux, fouling resistance, and total organic carbons (TOC) rejection using PAN350 membrane was investigated by applying a two-level full factorial design (FFD) analysis. For permeate flux and fouling resistance, TMP was the most significant factor followed by the temperature and CFV in terms of importance, respectively. However, in case of TOC rejection, CFV was the most significant factor and the importance of the main effect of CFV was followed by the temperature and TMP, respectively. The analysis revealed that T-TMP, T-CFV, and TMP-CFV interactions have significant effects on permeate flux, fouling resistance, and TOC rejection, respectively. Model adequacy checking indicates appropriateness of fit of the models. Optimum temperature, TMP, and CFV were found to be 50 °C, 3.9 bar, and 1.75 m/s, respectively. Also, regarding removal efficiency of PAN350 membrane under optimum operating conditions, it was demonstrable that it would be a potential choice for industrial applications.