Preliminary Investigation of the Applicability of a Simulated Set-up to Assess Membrane Fouling by Residence Time Distribution Studies

Fouling of membrane systems represents significant cost in time, maintenance and quality in the food and dairy industry. While gross methods of fouling determination such as flux decline and changes in transmembrane pressure are adequate to determine the overall extent of fouling, finer tools are necessary to properly diagnose fouling and to properly assess the effectiveness of cleaning regimes. This study investigates the effect of simulated and actual fouling on the residence time distribution of a single pulse through a single membrane sheet. The differences in residence time distribution observed allow an assessment of the degree and spatial position of fouling material without any need to disrupt the operation of the membrane. This method can be used to assess the need for cleaning and maintenance as well as the effectiveness of cleaning regimes.