Influence of Transparent Exopolymer Particles (TEP) Fouling on UF Ceramic Membranes and Associated Flux Recovery after Membrane Cleaning

Research conducted to examine the effect of transparent exopolymer particles (TEP) in the fouling of ultrafiltration ceramic membranes used to treat seawater from the Red Sea. Although ceramic membranes are known to be robust against high pressures encountered in backwashing and cleaning chemicals, the study was undertaken to determine optimal flux recovery after membrane cleaning. The TEP showed resistance against hydraulic backwashing resulting in low flux recovery. However, the use of ozone and sodium hypochlorite was shown to be effective in breaking up the TEP and improving flux recovery.