Background

Membrane distillation is a separation process in which separation occurs due to phase change across a barrier formed by hydrophobic membrane for liquid phase, allowing the vapor phase to pass through the pores.

Technology

Implementation of this process includes asymmetric wettability in order to induce directional liquid transfer through the membrane, after the completion of liquid phase transition. The use of nano-fibrous mats instead of conventional separation membranes, with tunable pore sizes, interconnected pores and high porosity, achieves a high throughput. The current proposal intends to integrate liquid transition across barrier layers used in separation membranes, with advantages including concepts for application to membrane distillation.

Advantages

The use of super-hydrophobic surfaces create an environment favorable for vapor liquid and liquid phase transition with reduced energy requirements.