Analysis of Tubular NF Plants in Scotland Indicates That Summer Temperatures and Redox-Sensitive Elements Are Correlated with Membrane Biofouling and Shortened Useful Life.

We investigate the effects of seasonal variations in water composition and temperature on the performance of two full-scale drinking water treatment plants in Scotland, equipped with tubular cellulose acetate nanofiltration membranes. Multiple environmental and water quality parameters, recorded over a 4.5-year period, were correlated against membrane permeance, cleaning frequency, and useful life.

Retention of pesticide Endosulfan by nanofiltration: influence of organic matter-pesticide complexation and solute-membrane interactions.

Nanofiltration (NF) is a well-established process used in drinking water production to effectively remove Natural Organic Matter (NOM) and organic micropollutants. The presence of NOM has been shown to have contrasting results on micropollutant retention by NF membranes and removal mechanisms are to date poorly understood. The permeate water quality can therefore vary during operation and its decrease would be an undesired outcome for potable water treatment.