AWWA MTC57581

The objective of this paper was to provide a framework for understanding fouling from a physicochemical perspective. Fouling results from interactions between fouling materials and membrane medium, interactions between fouling materials, and interactions between fouling materials and aquatic environments. Therefore, the understanding of those interactions is the key to understanding the fouling phenomenon and it is the basis for developing better products and processes to control fouling. At a very fundamental level, those interactions can be classified and described based on physicochemical principles. Those interactions include chemical binding, electrostatic, steric, van der Waals, and hydrophobic. A discussion of how those interactions would relate to membrane fouling and the effects of some physicochemical factors in an aquatic environment on membrane fouling is presented. Natural organic matter (NOM) has been identified as a major fouling component for microfiltration and ultrafiltration membranes, especially when applied to surface water filtration. This paper discusses the physicochemical properties of NOM, and how those properties may affect fouling potential. A better understanding of fouling mechanisms may help to develop more effective strategies for fouling control and prevention. Includes 35 references, table, figures.