Progress in module design for membrane distillation

• Published in: Desalination 2024-07, Vol.581, p.117584, Article 117584
• Main Authors: Ali, Aamer, Agha Shirazi, Mohammad Mahdi, Nthunya, Lebea, Castro-Muñoz, Roberto, Ismail, Norafiqah, Tavajohi, Naser, Zaragoza, Guillermo, Quist-Jensen, Cejna Anna
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Energy efficiency; Flat sheet membranes; Hollow fiber membranes; Membrane distillation; Module design
• ISSN: 0011-9164; 1873-4464; 1873-4464
• DOI: 10.1016/j.desal.2024.117584

There have been tremendous advances in membrane distillation (MD) since the concept was introduced in 1961: new membrane designs and process configurations have emerged, and its commercial viability has been evaluated in several pilot-scale studies. However, its high energy consumption has hindered its commercialization. One of the most promising ways to overcome this obstacle is to develop more energy-efficient membrane modules. The MD research community has therefore developed diverse new module configurations for hollow fiber and flat sheet membranes that increase the thermal energy efficiency of MD by minimizing thermal polarization, increasing mass transfer across the membrane, and improving heat recovery from the condensed vapor. This review summarizes the progress made in the design of hollow fiber and flat sheet membrane modules for MD applications. It begins with a brief introduction to MD and its configurations before describing developments in module fabrication and highlighting key areas where further research is needed. [Display omitted] •Significant interest in developing new module designs for MD is emerging.•Progress in hollow fiber and flat sheet membrane modules for MD is reviewed.•Key areas for future research in MD modules are highlighted.