Cleaning biofouled membranes early improves plant operation. Comparison of autopsy and cleaning results on a small BWRO and large SWRO.

This paper discusses membrane element cleaning for a wide range of foulants and scales. The authors theorize that during the soaking process of a specific cleaning solution encourages natural osmosis of permeate water through the membrane to help remove biofilm and clay fouling layer. The paper also concludes for the cleaners tested that it was easier to remove deposits before they have formed a substantial cake layer.