Transport Processes and Separation Process Principles (Includes Unit Operations) Fourth Edition

13.12. MICROFILTRATION MEMBRANE PROCESSES

13.12A. Introduction

In microfiltration, pressure-driven flow through a membrane is used to separate micron-size particles from fluids. The size range of particles ranges from 0.02 μm to 10 μm (H2). This microfiltration separates particles from solutions. The particles are usually larger than the solutes in reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration. Hence, osmotic pressure is negligible. At the very low end of the size range, very large soluble macromolecules are retained. Bacteria and other microorganisms (P7) are also retained on these membranes. Other particles in this size range are paint pigment, yeast cells, suspended matter such as cells from fermentation broth, particles in beer pasteurization, and ...