Abstract: The present invention provides a method of removing contaminants from water which includes the steps of first providing a water feed exposed to at least one hydrocarbon or chemical process. This water feed is set in-line with a reverse osmosis system which includes an inlet, at least one reverse osmosis membrane, a permeate outlet, and a reject outlet. Then, pressure is applied to the water feed, or where the pressure of the water feed is higher than desired, the pressure is controlled or reduced. The pressure of the water feed serves to force the water feed through the reverse osmosis system. The reverse osmosis system then separates the water feed into a permeate and reject which includes at least one of the contaminants. The permeate is then directed to the permeate outlet and the reject is directed to the reject outlet.

Abstract: A separation module and method are disclosed for processing a liquid sample and providing high conversion by operating a single-pass tangential-flow process without a recirculation loop. In one embodiment, the separation module includes three reservoirs and has at least one long, thin channel with a large ratio of channel membrane area to: channel void volume; volume of a sample feed reservoir; and volume of the feed sample. In another embodiment, the separation module includes two reservoirs and a hydrophobic vent. The single-pass process provides high conversion while operating with relatively low pressure sources.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a method and a device for desalting water by reverse osmosis, particularly for desalting seawater, in which saltwater is introduced under a first pressure into a pressure-compensation device and conducted from pressure-compensation device at a second, higher pressure into a membrane module, wherein desalted water and concentrated saltwater are conducted out of membrane module, wherein the concentrated saltwater conducted out of membrane module is continuously introduced at roughly second pressure into pressure-compensation device and used there to apply roughly second pressure to saltwater introduced into pressure-compensation device and to introduce saltwater into membrane module, and wherein the introduction of concentrated saltwater into pressure-compensation device and the conduction of concentrated saltwater out of pressure-compensation device are accomplished by means of controlled main valves.

Abstract: Apparatus and processes are disclosed for economical separation of fluid mixtures utilizing perm-selective membranes. Broadly, apparatus of the invention comprises a plurality of membrane modules comprising a solid perm-selective membrane and equipment for controlling enthalpy of selected fluids within the apparatus. Advantageously, the membrane modules are disposed in a first product group, a second product group, and at least one intermediate group. Apparatus of the invention is particularly useful for simultaneous recovery of a very pure permeate product, and/or a desired non-permeate stream, from fluid mixtures of two or more compounds which when subjected to appropriately altered conditions of temperature and/or pressure exhibit a bubble point.

Abstract: A method of conditioning mixed liquor in a membrane biological reactor comprising adding to the mixed liquor an effective coagulating and flocculating amount of one or more water soluble cationic, amphoteric or zwitterionic polymers, or combination thereof and methods of reducing membrane fouling, enhancing membrane flux and reducing sludge production.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system and method for transferring a selected solute species from a fluid mixture to a fluid media. The system of the present invention includes a convergent channel for passing a fluid mixture containing a selected species tangentially across the first surface of a porous membrane. A fluid media is directed to flow tangentially over the second surface of the membrane. As the fluid mixture and the fluid media flow on opposite sides of the membrane, the selected species traverses the membrane leaving the fluid mixture and entering the fluid media. The volumetric loss to the fluid mixture associated with the loss of the selected species is compensated for by the convergency of the channel. As a result a constant velocity is maintained over the membrane, maximizing the selectivity of the filtration process.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of purifying feedwater to remove impurities including suspended solids therefrom, the method suitable for using in-line water pressure to permeate water through hollow fiber membranes and to backflush the membranes to remove solids collected or deposited thereon.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for adjusting the composition of a dispersions comprising particulate matter and a fluid medium which comprises separating the dispersion into a plurality of fractions. The present invention particularly relates to a novel apparatus comprising a filter membrane adapted for use in accordance with the process of the present invention. The present invention further relates to a process for adjusting the composition of a plurality of dispersions and a novel apparatus for use in this process.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for purifying water whereby:

Abstract: Improvements in product water throughput from a reverse osmosis (RO) membrane achieved by thinner feed spacers in the RO element (22), enhanced recovery (ratio of permeate to feed), pressure recovery of the retentate fluid pressure opposing the feed water pressure, and fluid pulsing of the RO element feed stream. These features are preferably combined to optimize the performance and cost per unit volume of water produced. The system of the invention preferably comprises a dual head reciprocating pump (20), an RO element (22) with a housing, and a differential pressure activated (“DPA”) valve (24). The DPA valve (24), in combination with offsetting fluid pressures on the two pump heads (28, 30), generate energy recovery. The frequency and amplitude of the reciprocating pump (20) create a pulse wave in the RO element (22) that improves permeate quality and throughput.

Abstract: Improvements in product water throughput from a reverse osmosis (RO) membrane filter achieved by thinner feed spacers in the RO element, enhanced recovery (ratio of permeate to feed), pressure recovery of the retentate fluid pressure opposing the feed water pressure, and fluid pulsing of the RO element feed stream. The system of the invention preferably comprises a dual head reciprocating pump, an RO element, and a differential pressure activated (“DPA”) valve. The DPA valve, in combination with connecting the two pump heads to reduce required pump pressures, generates energy recovery. The frequency and amplitude of the reciprocating pump create a pulse wave in the RO element that improves permeate quality and throughput. A control system preferably monitors system parameters to optimize the reciprocating pump speed and amplitude in order to obtain maximum throughput and permeate quality from any given RO element configuration.

Abstract: A reverse osmosis system includes a reverse osmosis filter apparatus in communication with a pressure conversion apparatus. The reverse osmosis filter is connected to a high pressure pump that provides feed water at a high pressure to the reverse osmosis filter. The pressure conversion apparatus is in communication with a low pressure water supply and the reverse osmosis filter apparatus. The pressure conversion apparatus receives low pressure water from the low pressure water supply and high pressure brine from the reverse osmosis filter apparatus. The pressure conversion apparatus is structured to convert the low pressure water contained in the pressure conversion apparatus to high pressure water without separately generating forces on the low pressure water. Methods of filtering water are also disclosed.

Abstract: A multipurpose hemofiltration system (10) and method are disclosed for the removal of fluid and/or soluble waste from the blood of a patient. The system (10) continuously monitors the flow rates of drained fluid, blood, and infusate. When necessary, the pumping rates of the infusate, drained fluid and blood are adjusted to remove a preselected amount of fluid from the blood in a preselected time period. A supervisory controller (160) can monitor patient parameters, such as heart rate (120) and blood pressure (130), and adjust the pumping rates accordingly. The supervisory controller (160) uses fuzzy logic to make expert decisions, based upon a set of supervisory rules, to control each pumping rate to achieve a desired flow rate and to respond to fault conditions. An adaptive controller (162) corrects temporal variations in the flow rate based upon an adaptive law and a control law.

Abstract: A filtering method and system which prevents adhesion between an outlet vessel and a filter element and which uses a flexible filter which allows smooth flow of liquid and is superior in filtering performance. The method uses a flexible vessel having an inlet and an outlet for liquid, a sheet-like filter element, and a filter in which the inlet and outlet for liquid are separated by the filter element, wherein in filtering a liquid by the action of gravity or of a liquid feed pump, the pressure in the outlet of the filter is not less than 0 mmHg with respect to the atmospheric pressure; and a filtering system.

Abstract: A dialysis machine (1) is provided with a dialysate circuit (3), a blood circuit (2) and a filter (4) having a dialysate compartment (6) connected to the dialysate circuit (3), a blood compartment (5) connected to the blood circuit (2), and a semi-permeable membrane (7) to separate the dialysate compartment (6) from the blood compartment (5). A method for filling and washing the filter comprises the recirculation of a physiological saline in the dialysate circuit (3) and the transfer of the physiological saline from the dialysate circuit (3) to the blood circuit (2) through the semi-permeable membrane (7).

Abstract: A method is provided for converting feedwater to fresh water utilizing existing water pressures and high flow rates. At least one reverse osmosis unit is disposed in a feedwater supply conduit. Feedwater is conveyed through the supply conduit and the reverse osmosis unit at a pressure that exceeds the osmotic pressure for solids dissolved in the feedwater. A first stream of fresh water is withdrawn from the reverse osmosis unit as permeate, and a second stream is withdrawn therefrom as effluent. The effluent is returned to, or continues to flow in, the supply conduit downstream of the reverse osmosis unit.

Abstract: The present invention is a water processing method comprising the steps of separating boron-containing water in a reverse osmosis membrane module to provide a permeated water and subjecting a part of the obtained permeated water to boron removal using an adsorbent, wherein the water subjected to the boron removal is mixed with the water not subjected to the boron removal of the permeated water to provide a mixed water. The present invention provides economic water processing method and apparatus that remove the boron from boron-containing water.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a method and a device for desalting water by reverse osmosis, particularly for desalting seawater, in which saltwater (10) is introduced under a first pressure (p1) into a pressure-compensation device (2) and conducted from pressure-compensation device (2) at a second, higher pressure (P2) into a membrane module (3), wherein desalted water (12) and concentrated saltwater (13) are conducted out of membrane module (3), wherein the concentrated saltwater (13) conducted out of membrane module (3) is continuously introduced at roughly second pressure (P2) into pressure-compensation device (2) and used there to apply roughly second pressure (P2) to saltwater (10) introduced into pressure-compensation device (2) and to introduce saltwater (11) into membrane module (3), and wherein the introduction of concentrated saltwater (13) into pressure-compensation device (2) and the conduction of concentrated saltwater (14) out of pressure-compensation device (2) are accomplished by means of controll

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for dividing a fluid into desired proportions by means of a filtering device. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a filtration device, the filtration device comprising a filter; (b) adding a fluid to the filtration device, the fluid containing material dissolved or suspended therein; (c) placing the filtration device to which fluid has been added in a pressure vessel, the pressure vessel capable of withstanding a specified level of pressure relative to ambient pressure; (d) sealing the filtration device to form a trapped volume downstream of the filter; (e) increasing the pressure in the pressure vessel upstream of the filter; (f) allowing a period of time to elapse to allow the pressure downstream of the filter in the trapped volume to be substantially equal to the pressure upstream of the filter; (g) unsealing the filtration device; and (h) venting the pressure vessel.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system and method for transferring a selected solute species from a fluid mixture to a fluid media. The system of the present invention includes a convergent channel for passing a fluid mixture containing a selected species tangentially across the first surface of a porous membrane. A fluid media is directed to flow tangentially over the second surface of the membrane. As the fluid mixture and the fluid media flow on opposite sides of the membrane, the selected species traverses the membrane leaving the fluid mixture and entering the fluid media. The volumetric loss to the fluid mixture associated with the loss of the selected species is compensated for by the convergency of the channel. As a result a constant velocity is maintained over the membrane, maximizing the selectivity of the filtration process.

Abstract: An apparatus is described for withdrawing filtered permeate from a substrate contained in a reservoir at ambient pressure. The apparatus includes a plurality of membrane assemblies. Each assembly has a plurality of hollow fiber filtering membranes, immersed in the reservoir, at least one permeating header with the membranes sealingly secured therein, and a permeate collector to collect the permeate sealingly connected to the at least one permeating header and in fluid communication with lumens of the membranes. The membranes of each assembly extend generally vertically upwards from a first header during permeation. One or more sources of suction are provided in fluid communication with the lumens of the membranes of each assembly through the permeate collectors and apply sufficient suction to withdraw permeate from the lumens of the membranes. An aeration system for discharging bubbles assists in keeping the membranes clean.

Abstract: A system is provided for proceeding with filtration of liquids in a manner having enhanced control characteristics. Yields are enhanced. The system and method can be used to maintain a substantially constant trans-membrane pressure. When desired, that constant trans-membrane pressure is especially well-suited to yield enhancement for the particular liquid being filtered, concentrated or collected, while minimizing a risk of damage to or loss of valuable components. Additionally, a constant feed rate or pump output can be maintained.

Abstract: A method of chemically cleaning normally immersed suction driven filtering membranes involves backwashing a chemical cleaner through the membranes while the tank is empty in repeated pulses in which the chemical cleaner is pumped to the membranes separated by waiting periods in which chemical cleaner is not pumped to the membranes. The duration and frequency of the pulses is preferably chosen to provide an appropriate contact time of the chemical, preferably without allowing the membranes to dry between pulses and without using excessive amounts of chemical. In other aspects, such membranes preferably used for filtering water to produce potable water in a batch process are backwashed with a chemical cleaner substantially at the same time as the tank is being drained. The chemical cleaner is optionally supplied in pulses.

Abstract: Reverse osmosis filtration is conducted using a rotatable inner body having an axis of rotation and a reverse osmosis filter member disposed on the inner body. An outer body is disposed about the inner body and spaced therefrom to provide an annulus between an annular outer surface of the filter member and an annular inner surface of the outer body to receive a liquid to be filtered. A source of the liquid under pressure is communicated to an inlet to the annulus. The inner body is rotated at a rotational speed effective to generate Taylor or other vortices in the liquid in the annulus.

Abstract: An apparatus is described for withdrawing filtered permeate from a substrate contained in a reservoir at ambient pressure. The apparatus includes a plurality of membrane assemblies. Each assembly has a plurality of hollow fiber filtering membranes, immersed in the reservoir, at least one permeating header with the membranes sealingly secured therein, and a permeate collector to collect the permeate sealingly connected to the at least one permeating header and in fluid communication with lumens of the membranes. The membranes of each assembly extend generally vertically upwards from a first header during permeation. One or more sources of suction are provided in fluid communication with the lumens of the membranes of each assembly through the permeate collectors and apply sufficient suction to withdraw permeate from the lumens of the membranes. An aeration system for discharging bubbles assists in keeping the membranes clean.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for measuring the amount of entrained gases in a liquid sample. A conduit defining a volume is provided. The conduit has an inlet at a lower end thereof and an outlet at an upper end thereof. Liquid sample is made to flow into the inlet, through the conduit, and out of the outlet. The weight of the liquid sample in the conduit is determined during a flow of liquid sample through the conduit to obtain a first measurement. Thereafter, a difference between the first measurement and a predetermined weight value representing a weight of the same liquid sample flowing through the conduit but containing no entrained gases is determined to obtain a calculated weight of entrained gases in the liquid sample flowing through the conduit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for manufacturing deionized water is provided. Water is supplied to a first conduit. A plurality of reverse osmotic pressure vessels are connected to the first conduit. A filtering experimental vessel is connected to the first conduit, the filtering experimental vessel is separated from the plurality of reverse osmotic pressure vessels. A second conduit is connected to the plurality of reverse osmotic pressure vessels and the filtering experimental vessel for outputting the deionized water. A third conduit is connected to the plurality of reverse osmotic pressure vessels and the filtering experimental vessel for outputting concentrated ion water. The plurality of reverse osmotic pressure vessels and the filtering experimental vessel concurrently or independently separates the supplying water into the deionized water and the concentrated ion water.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for dividing a fluid into desired proportions by means of a filtering device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for filtering suspensions of medical and biological fluids, one aspect of which is separating a suspension comprising at least two types of particles which are differently sized or shaped and in which the first type of particle may be deformable at a relatively lower force and/or faster rate than the second type of particle. A filter member is provided having substantially precisely dimensioned pore sizes, with the pores being dimensioned to allow passage of the first type of suspended particle without distortion or only minimal distortion and passage of the second type of particle only with substantial distortion.

Abstract: The method relates to bringing about a mixed state of at least two fluids in a second part (34) of a line, which have flowed through a first part (32) of this line. This is attained in that a fractional flow of the fluids is withdrawn from the second part (34) of the line at a point (43), and this fractional flow is resupplied to the second part (34) of the line at a different point (45). A employment to avoid clogs in modules in a crossflow filtration system is described, along with apparatuses for performing the employment.

Abstract: A process is provided for the removal of organic substances (TOC), pesticides or other specific compounds from an aqueous salt solution, for example from a regenerate derived from water purification. The TOC-containing aqueous salt solution is treated in a desalination membrane according to the dead-end principle, wherein neither longitudinal flow over the membrane with air and/or water, nor continuous concentrate discharge takes place, after which the obtained permeate is reused, and the concentrate obtained after flushing is discharged. The TOC-containing aqueous salt solution is introduced at the feed side of the membrane module at a flux of 5-75 1/m2·h, a feed pressure of 4-12 bars for 30-40 minutes, while the obtained TOC-depleted permeate is discharged. Preferably, operation takes place at a flux of 15-25 1/m2·hr, a pressure of approximately 8 bars, and the duration of treatment is approximately 30 minutes.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for separating residual water from a solvent. The device comprises a reservoir containing a solution comprising solvent containing residual water, the reservoir having an opening to allow the solution to drain from the reservoir. A membrane layer is provided comprising a layer of fluropolymer material, said membrane material having a IPA Bubble Point of ≧25 psi. The membrane is positioned in series with the reservoir opening. Vacuum is generated on one side of the membrane layer wherein the solvent containing water passes through the membrane therein removing water from the solvent to provide a solvent with a water level of less than or equal to 1.0 ppm.

Abstract: A method for recovering supercritical extractant, such as supercritical CO2, from a mixture containing the supercritical extractant and a solute is disclosed, which includes contacting the mixture with a molecular sieve membrane at a temperature and a pressure in a critical region of the extractant and near a critical point of the extractant so that a permeate rich in the extractant and a retentate having a enriched concentration of the solute in the extractant are generated. The molecular sieve membrane has a pore size significantly larger than a size of the extractant provided that the pore size is less than and close to sizes of clusters formed of the solute and the extractant at the temperature and the pressure.

Abstract: Formation of bubbles is prevented during filtration operation by placing an oil on top of a solution-to-be filtered, where the oil is not admixable with the solution and has a lower specific gravity than the solution. The oil seals the solution from air so that no bubbles are formed. The oil does not pass through the filter even after all collectable filtrate of the solution has passed therethrough.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for microfiltration useful in softening water as well as in removing other dissolved constituents where the method comprises passing water that contains a precipitate through a semipermeable tubular membrane. Filtrate is received from the outside of the tubular membrane and the filtrate contains levels of dissolved compounds at concentrations below those that would be predicted by the solubility limits of the compounds. The method may be practiced at elevated pressures without incurring significant fouling of the membrane. It is particularly suited to removing cations such as calcium and magnesium that contribute to water hardness. The water may be treated prior to passing through the membrane by adjusting pH, adding complimentary anions, or adding a flocculant. The apparatus comprises a series of semipermeable tubular membranes housed in a module. The membranes are fluidly connected to an inlet and two outlets.

Abstract: The invention is a filter device for removing water from sludges, slurries, or other suspensions, and may include a hydraulic press and/or a membrane and vacuum system for applying a pressure to the sludge or slurry, heating elements for heating and drying the sludge or slurry, vibrating elements for agitating the sludge or slurry, and air injectors for agitating and drying the sludge or slurry.

Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to a method and apparatus for separating a mixture containing an aqueous liquid and an immiscible organic phase using microporous hollow fibers. Such mixtures are separated into a substantially organic-free aqueous phase and a substantially aqueous-free organic phase. The mixture is pressurized in a controlled low shear manner to minimize emulsification as it is contacted with the fibers. Productivity is enhanced by separating as a third product stream, a further organic phase containing only small amounts of an aqueous phase, which for some applications can usefully be combined with the substantially aqueous-free organic phase. Other ways for enhancing productivity are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system and method for transferring a selected solute species from a fluid mixture to a fluid media. The system of the present invention includes a convergent channel for passing a fluid mixture containing a selected species tangentially across the first surface of a porous membrane. A fluid media is directed to flow tangentially over the second surface of the membrane. As the fluid mixture and the fluid media flow on opposite sides of the membrane, the selected species traverses the membrane leaving the fluid mixture and entering the fluid media. The volumetric loss to the fluid mixture associated with the loss of the selected species is compensated for by the convergency of the channel. As a result a constant velocity is maintained over the membrane, maximizing the selectivity of the filtration process.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for microfiltration useful in softening water as well as in removing other dissolved constituents where the method comprises passing water that contains a precipitate through a semipermeable tubular membrane. Filtrate is received from the outside of the tubular membrane and the filtrate contains levels of dissolved compounds at concentrations below those that would be predicted by the solubility limits of the compounds. The method may be practiced at elevated pressures without incurring significant fouling of the membrane. It is particularly suited to removing cations such as calcium and magnesium that contribute to water hardness. The water may be treated prior to passing through the membrane by adjusting pH, adding complimentary anions, or adding a flocculant. The apparatus comprises a series of semipermeable tubular membranes housed in a module. The membranes are fluidly connected to an inlet and two outlets.

Abstract: The method relates to the operation of a cross-flow filtration installation for a product. This installation includes a filtration module (6), a pipeline (3) for the inflow of the product, a pipeline (9) for removing the product, a pump (4) with an electric motor (12) for recirculating the product, and a control valve (5′) for setting the conveying flow (Q1) of the pump (4). In order to make possible the maximally possible filtration output, based on the installation, along with a high proportion of solids of the product, without endangering operational safety by means of overloads, the strength of the operating current (i1) of the electric motor (12) is measured. The operating current (i1) is adjusted to a maximally, permissible value via a regulator (20) by setting the conveying flow (Q1) of the pump (4) by adjusting the flow control valve (5′).

Abstract: A system for the retrieval and initial conditioning of sample gas for “on line” analyzers or filling of gas sample cylinders. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates a system configured to obtain a representative gas phase sample from a process gas containing entrained liquid, or a process gas which generally is highly susceptible to partial condensation of some gas phase components. The preferred embodiment of the present invention teaches an assembly including a phase separation membrane and housing configured to facilitate the removal of entrained liquid from a sample gas stream. Accuracy of the sample is enhanced, and compositional changes are avoided by first extracting a sample from the process gas followed by removal of entrained liquid it may contain, with the entrained liquid removal being conducted at the prevailing process gas pressure and temperature.

Abstract: A system is provided for proceeding with filtration of liquids in a manner having enhanced control characteristics. Yields are enhanced. The system and method can be used to maintain a substantially constant trans-membrane pressure. When desired, that constant trans-membrane pressure is especially well-suited to yield enhancement for the particular liquid being filtered, concentrated or collected, while minimizing a risk of damage to or loss of valuable components. Additionally, a constant feed rate or pump output can be maintained. Approaches also are described for determining optimal filtration conditions, including trans-membrane pressure and feed rate. Also described is a system and method for determining pressures in a pulsating system with enhanced accuracy by using a peak pressure mode.

Abstract: A wash water pipe having a flushing valve inserted therein is connected with a concentrated water outlet pipe connected to a concentrated water outlet of a fresh water generating cartridge. A timer controls opening and closing of the flushing valve. The flushing valve is periodically opened during interruption of fresh water generation work with the fresh water generating cartridge or during fresh water generation work, or opened simultaneously with interruption of fresh water generation work or when restarting fresh water generation work, for performing flushing. Thus, the linear velocity on the surface of a reverse osmosis membrane of the fresh water generating cartridge is increased and impurities remaining on the membrane surface are discharged from the fresh water generating cartridge.

Abstract: A multiple chamber sample holding cartridge is used with a supercritical fluid extractor that causes membranes dividing the cartridge into chambers to rupture upon the pressurization of the sample cartridge, thereby allowing the intermixing of materials contained in the chambers. The neutral oil and loss determination of soybean and other oilseed oils by supercritical fluid extraction is efficient with this two-chambered sample cartridge.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for microfiltration useful in softening water as well as in removing other dissolved constituents where the method comprises passing water that contains a precipitate through a semipermeable tubular membrane. Filtrate is received from the outside of the tubular membrane and the filtrate contains levels of dissolved compounds at concentrations below those that would be predicted by the solubility limits of the compounds. The method may be practiced at elevated pressures and turbulent flow without incurring significant fouling of the membrane. It is particularly suited to removing cations such as calcium and magnesium that contribute to water hardness. The water may be treated prior to passing through the membrane by adjusting pH, adding complimentary anions, or adding a flocculant. The apparatus comprises a series of semipermeable tubular membranes housed in a module. The membranes are fluidly connected to an inlet and two outlets.

Abstract: Carboxylic acids are recovered from a fermentation broth by adjusting the pH of a fermentation broth comprised of a carboxylic acid to at least about 6.0 and then heating the pH-adjusted broth to a temperature sufficient to effect the formation of three immiscible phases, one of which is an oily phase rich in the carboxylic acid.

Abstract: A filtration system for a cross-flow membrane filter which reduces the deleterious effects of concentration polarization and membrane fouling, thereby increasing the average transmembrane flux. The filtration system includes a feed supply for providing a feed solution; a feed pump connected to the feed supply; a cross-flow membrane filter connected downstream of the feed pump for separating the feed into a permeate and a retentate, the cross-flow membrane filter including at least two membrane ports and at least two permeate outlets; a valve manifold assembly located between the feed pump and the cross-flow membrane filter; and a control system for controlling the valve manifold to selectively reverse the flow of the feed through the cross-flow membrane filter.

Abstract: Limitation of the number of cassettes in an assembly currently used for the production of permeate is obviated by grouping plural cassettes into racks one or more of which may be isolated while permeate production from the remaining racks is uninterrupted. Ancillary functions such as back-pulsing, chemical cleaning and testing for defects in membranes (“integrity testing”) in one or more racks may proceed while production of permeate continues. The number of racks in a bank is determined by the period of the overall filtration cycle, typically 15 min, in which filtration period the ancillary period is a minor portion, typically 30 sec. The racks make it possible to use automatic on/off valves which open and close quicker than larger ones. The resulting saving in time, energy, and equipment costs, which when back-pulsing with permeate is surprisingly economical, is even greater when a chemical cleaning solution is to be used.

Abstract: There is disclosed a system for separating oil and other immiscible organic materials from a liquid body or from a mixture with an aqueous medium. The system includes the use of a plurality of microporous hollow fibers which may be arranged in any number of arrangements such as bundles, intersecting arrangements, divergent patters or in a mat-like arrangement or a combination of the foregoing. The hollow fibers are in communication with a pressure source in order to draw or force the contaminant into contact by the shell side of the fibers and through the micropores thereof. Discrete phase separation from a mixture in substantially pure form, i.e. no free phase contamination is achievable. This system provides a substantial advantage over existing arrangements in that extraction efficiency is greatly enhanced in any number of environments.

Abstract: Carboxylic acids are recovered from a fermentation broth by adjusting the pH of a fermentation broth comprised of a carboxylic acid to at least about 6.0 and then heating the pH-adjusted broth to a temperature sufficient to effect the formation of three immiscible phases, one of which is an oily phase rich in the carboxylic acid.