Performance of an integrated granular media – ultrafiltration membrane process for drinking water treatment

This paper presents a novel approach to reducing the problem of ultrafiltration (UF) membrane fouling. It specifically considers the application of coagulation/sedimentation pre-treatment prior to UF for drinking water supply. In typical situations, the water post pre-treatment contains un-settled microflocs and microrganisms which are major contributors to downstream ultrafiltration membrane fouling. There is a continuing need to improve existing methods of preventing such fouling which is often characterized by the formation of a thick and dense cake layer and irreversible pore blocking.