Nanofiltration: from prototype to full scale

At a water facility in the Paris suburbs, a prototype nanofiltration (NF) plant was used to assess NF membrane performance prior to design and construction of a large-scale expansion to an existing plant. Prototype operation uncovered both the successes and deficiencies in membrane performance, particularly with regard to the source water supplying the plant. In response to these concerns, a new membrane was developed in partnership with the membrane manufacturer. In parallel with the prototype work conducted in France, a similar membrane assessment was carried out in England. Results from both pilot-plant operations indicate that an NF membrane manufactured to meet site-specific concerns can overcome variable operating conditions and treat large water flows.