Development of functionalized nanofibrous membrane for membrane distillation process

This project focuses on the development and optimization of a nanofibrous membrane with antibacterial treatment and limited fouling rate to prolong its lifetime for water management applications. The aim of the project is to achieve a proven membrane distillation technology with an innovative recovery module incorporating a functionalised composite nanofibre polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane. The composite membrane will be laminated with a suitable material that will have minimal impact on its properties. The lamination serves to stiffen the membrane and is necessary because of possible pressure changes in the module and to simplify handling in the event of membrane replacement. Such a system will allow, with appropriate pre-treatment and a membrane distillation unit, the treatment of, for example, a reverse osmosis waste stream, highly mineralised waste water, etc. The project has the potential to make a major contribution to the knowledge of the membrane distillation process and its application in wastewater or drinking water treatment. The knowledge gained will allow optimisation of the process and easy adaptation of the technology to the nature of the incoming water and the specific needs of the site.