Processes and Membrane Technology

Recommended Prerequisites

Thermodynamics, Transport phenomena and Separation processes.

Teaching Methods

The teaching will be taught through lectures and tutorials. Theoretical classes are exposed theoretical concepts and methodological approaches to problems, accompanied by some application examples. In class tutorial guidance will promote the discussion of group work related to the design of equipment and simulation of processes for separating components of mixtures.

Learning Outcomes

Acquisition of scientific and technical knowledge required on the main separation processes based on membranes in order sizing, equipment selection and performance assessment of commercial modules. Understanding of the phenomena of solute transport across membranes and application of equations for predicting the flow. Understanding the phenomenon of "fouling" and its interpretation with appropriate models. Application of mathematical and computational tools to simulate solute transport in membranes with applications in biotechnology and medicine.

Develop the following skills: capacity for analysis and synthesis, ability to solve problems and apply critical thinking and ability to apply theoretical knowledge to processes involving the integration of various types of membranes.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Classification of membrane processes. Driving force and mechanisms of solute transport. Phenomena of concentration polarization and fouling of the membranes. Film theory model, gel layer and osmotic pressure models. Commercial membrane processes: microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, pervaporation and gas permeation. Sizing, modes of operation, the arrangement of modules, energy needs and economy. Applications in biotechnology and wastewater treatment. Modeling techniques and numerical simulation of solute transport across membranes driven byr pressure gradient. Nernst-Planck equations. Mathematical description of transport in membranes with applications in medicine. Artificial lung - oxygenators and artificial kidney - hemodialysis.

Head Lecturer(s)

Licínio Manuel Gando de Azevedo Ferreira

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Mini Tests: 20.0%
Research work: 80.0%

Bibliography

-Nath, K.., Membrane Separations. Prentice-Hall of India Private Limited, New Delhi, 2008

-Baker, R.W., Membrane Technology and Applications. John Wiley & Sons, 2004

-Mulder, M., Basic principle of membrane technology.  Kluwer Academic Publishers, 1991

-Wankat, P.C., Rate-controlled separations. Blackie Academic & Professional, 1994

-Peineman, K.V., Nunes, S.P., Membranes for Life Sciences. Wiley-VCH, 2007