GE has launched its AG LF series of “low-fouling" reverse osmosis (RO) membranes designed for tough-to-treat water such as wastewater from industrial processes.
The membranes feature a coating technology that GE said improves cleaning cycles, reduces pressure and reduces friction on the surface of the membrane, making it resistant to organic fouling. The manufacturer claimed the module can resist “degradation from water containing bacteria, colloids and other materials that foul and shorten membrane element life".
Field testing in Asia reportedly showed the membranes required fewer cleaning cycles compared to conventional brackish membranes in tough-to-treat applications, such as steel production, power plants and plating processes. The low-fouling membrane can reduce the time between cleanings by up to 50%, although actual results will vary with specific application conditions, said GE.
