Use of SAPO-5 zeolite–filled polyurethane membranes in wastewater treatment

The SAPO-5 zeolite-filled polyurethane membranes with perselectivity to the gases or liquids were prepared, characterized and utilized for the ultra- and, respectively, microfiltration (UF + MF) of synthetic wastewater containing colophony. The influence of the colloidal dispersion concentration on the membrane processes has been followed. Also, the conversion degree of colophony colloidal dispersions has been studied versus light diffusion through the dispersoid system. Filtration experiments were operated in cross-flow mode under 50 mm Hg of applied pressure. The influence of temperature on the membrane processes has been followed, the observation being made that, on increasing temperature, the membrane permeability (P) and retention capacity (R, %) increase. Thus, the conclusion to be drawn is that temperature influences considerably the colophony dispersion through the membrane. The temperature-dependent permeability parameter followed the Arrhenius relation from which the energy of activation has been obtained.

SAPO-5 zeolite-filled polyurethane membranes with permselectivity to the gases or liquids were prepared, characterized and utilized for the ultraand, respectively, microfiltration of synthetic wastewater containing colophony. The present study demonstrates the potential of the unfilled and zeolite-filled PU membranes for colophony removal from solutions with below 1 g/L concentrations. Temperature influences considerably the colophony molecule dispersion and diffusion through the membrane. Membrane fouling may be controlled by operational temperature. The results show the declination of permeability with the increase of colophony concentration at room temperature. Temperature increasing produces a permeability increasing. Therefore, higher temperatures are recommended for preventing membrane fouling with colophony. Lower values of Eap show that separation process is rapid and efficient.