Membrane pretreatment for large-scale seawater desalination has grown rapidly in the last few years. Existing examples seem to show that the additional cost can be more than recouped in reduced chemical costs alone, but there are also environmental advantages. This article is the first of two discussing the advantages of polyethersulfone (PESU) membranes for filtration duties in water treatment. This article will start by considering general advantages of membrane use together with the reference and experience position, and then examine the particular benefits of PESU in terms of treated water quality. The final sections include a review of membrane pretreatment costs and environmental impact in comparison with conventional pretreatment technology. The second article, to be published at the beginning of 2010, will consider the advantages in using PESU membranes in municipal water applications.
Membrane pretreatment for large-scale seawater desalination has grown rapidly in the last few years. Existing examples seem to show that the additional cost can be more than recouped in reduced chemical costs alone, but there are also environmental advantages.
This article is the first of two discussing the advantages of polyethersulfone (PESU) membranes for filtration duties in water treatment.
This article will start by considering general advantages of membrane use together with the reference and experience position, and then examine the particular benefits of PESU in terms of treated water quality. The final sections include a review of membrane pretreatment costs and environmental impact in comparison with conventional pretreatment technology.
The second article, to be published at the beginning of 2010, will consider the advantages in using PESU membranes in municipal water applications.