Predicting the performance of ceramic filters by the use of silt density index

A series of experiments were conducted to study the rate of filter fouling of several simulants. These solutions contained hydroxides of iron, aluminum, silica, and zinc, using a range of concentration of each under various conditions. Total Solids (TS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Silt Density Index (SDI), and conductivity were measured in the studies. The purpose of these experiments was to find out whether or not SDI could be used to accurately predict the performance of ceramic filters. The preliminary results show that SDI alone cannot be used, but can be used in conjunction with the total filtration time. The procedure is limited and can only be used for preliminary screening. 4 refs., 3 figs.