INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Membrane Surface

The active separation layer of a reverse osmosis membrane that selectively permits water molecules to pass while rejecting dissolved salts and contaminants.

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Component Specifications

Definition
The membrane surface is the critical functional interface in a reverse osmosis (RO) membrane element. It is a thin, dense polyamide active layer formed via interfacial polymerization on a porous polysulfone support. This surface governs the separation performance by applying size exclusion and solution-diffusion mechanisms under high pressure, typically 15-85 bar, allowing water permeation while rejecting over 99% of monovalent ions, organic molecules, and particulates.
Working Principle
Operates on the solution-diffusion model under applied transmembrane pressure. Water molecules dissolve into the polyamide matrix, diffuse through the dense polymer structure due to a concentration gradient, and desorb on the permeate side. Dissolved ions and larger solutes are excluded based on size and charge repulsion, with separation efficiency enhanced by the membrane's negative surface charge.
Materials
Thin-film composite (TFC) polyamide active layer (typically aromatic polyamide from m-phenylenediamine and trimesoyl chloride), supported by microporous polysulfone layer (40-150 μm thick) and non-woven polyester fabric backing (120-200 μm thick).
Technical Parameters
  • pH Range 2-11 (continuous), 1-12 (cleaning)
  • Water Flux 25-45 L/m²·h @ 25°C, 15.5 bar
  • Salt Rejection >99.7% (NaCl)
  • Chlorine Tolerance <0.1 ppm
  • Maximum Temperature 45°C
  • Maximum Operating Pressure 41 bar (600 psi)
Standards
ISO 11270, DIN 20043

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Membrane Surface.

reverse osmosis membrane surface RO membrane layer polyamide active layer thin-film composite membrane membrane filtration water treatment component salt rejection membrane specifications Membrane Surface Membrane Surface in Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Reverse Osmosis Membrane

A semi-permeable membrane used in reverse osmosis systems to remove dissolved solids, ions, and contaminants from water by applying pressure to overcome osmotic pressure.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Surface abrasion from particulate matter
  • Chemical degradation from oxidants (chlorine)
  • Biofouling reducing efficiency
  • Compaction under excessive pressure
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Chlorine exposure exceeding 0.1 ppm
Failure: Oxidative degradation of polyamide chains, leading to loss of salt rejection capability
Mitigation: Implement dechlorination pretreatment using activated carbon filters or sodium bisulfite injection; install ORP monitoring
Trigger: Inadequate pretreatment allowing scaling
Failure: Mineral scale (CaCO₃, CaSO₄) deposition on surface, causing flux decline and increased energy consumption
Mitigation: Maintain LSI < 0 with antiscalant dosing; implement regular CIP with acid cleaners (pH 2-3)

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Salt rejection tolerance ±0.2% from rated value; flux tolerance ±15% under standard test conditions
Test Method
ASTM D4194 for salt rejection; ASTM D6908 for flux normalization; ANSI/NSF 58 for material safety

Buyer Feedback

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes fouling on RO membrane surfaces?

Fouling results from scaling (mineral deposits like calcium carbonate), organic adsorption (humic acids, proteins), biological growth (biofilms), and colloidal particle accumulation, all reducing flux and increasing pressure requirements.

How is membrane surface performance tested?

Performance is validated through standardized tests measuring salt rejection percentage, normalized water flux, pressure drop, and integrity testing using conductivity meters, flow meters, and pressure gauges under controlled conditions.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

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Media Support Grid Metal flange