Removal of organic micro-pollutants by membrane filtration

Abstract This chapter summarizes the current knowledge on the application of conventional membrane processes used for the separation of trace organic micro-pollutants (OMPs) from freshwater and wastewater, i.e., microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, forward osmosis, and membrane bioreactors. This chapter also aims to summarize the different mechanisms responsible for the retention (size exclusion/steric hindrance, electrostatic repulsion, adsorption) and permeation (pore permeation, adsorption/diffusion) of OMPs. In addition, this chapter aims to identify the key parameters that influence the separation of OMPs during membrane filtration, including: the physicochemical properties of OMPs (molecular weight, charge, and hydrophobicity), the aqueous matrix chemistry (pH, ionic strength, and other solutes), and the membrane properties (pore size, skin layer density, configuration, and surface charge). Indications of further membrane development for the purpose of improving OMP separation/removal from water are also identified.