Critical review on organic fouling in membrane distillation for desalination and water purification

作者：Mingmei Ding, Sihao Zhang, Houzhen Zhou, Hang Xu, Hui Tao, Tao Lin, Li Gao · 发表于：Desalination · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1016/j.desal.2025.118718 · 被引用次数：44 · 研究领域：Membrane Separation Technologies、Membrane-based Ion Separation Techniques、Solar-Powered Water Purification Methods

Membrane distillation (MD), a thermally-driven separation technique, with the capability to utilize alternative energy sources and operate effectively in high salinity, brines, and wastewater, has been recognized as an attractive candidate for relieving water scarcity issues. However, membrane fouling caused by the deposition and invasion of foulants on the membrane surface or inside pores has always been a great obstacle constraining the more widespread application of MD in water purification. Although substantial studies have focused on understanding the formation and mechanism of membrane fouling specifically addressing scaling, far too little attention has been paid to the organic fouling during MD process. This critical review first summarizes the common characterization strategies for the investigation of the physicochemical properties of organic fouling. Next, it delves into the water treatment performance and the fouling mechanism under diverse organic matters. We further provide an overview of the significant factors influencing the evolution process of organic fouling during MD. Whereafter, we review the review on methods to mitigate and control organic fouling by pretreatment, membrane material design, and membrane cleaning. Finally, we outline future research directions essential for developing advanced control strategies to mitigate organic fouling, which would contribute to enhancing the efficiency and resilience of membrane distillation. • The influence of orga...