Biofouling phenomena in membrane distillation: mechanisms and mitigation strategies

Membrane distillation (MD) is envisaged as a cost-effective water desalination technology. When operated by low-grade energy, MD surpasses the cost challenges faced by other water desalination technologies. Although MD operates under conditions that minimize the survival of biofilm causing microorganisms, their development and succession is being increasingly reported. This is believed to be caused by the presence of halophiles and thermophiles in the feed solution, inducing significant efficiency losses. Therefore, biofouling mitigation remains crucial. This study reports current developments toward MD biofouling and mitigation strategies. Also, effects of membrane biofouling on process performance are briefly highlighted. This provides an in-depth understanding of measures required to minimize biofouling of MD systems. Membrane distillation (MD) is envisaged as a cost-effective water desalination technology. However, its industrial application has been limited by process inefficiencies caused by fouling, amongst other factors.