Abstract:
The invention relates to membrane modules and applications therefor. In particular, the invention relates to the construction of membrane modules for use in forward osmosis, heat exchange, and distillation processes.
Abstract:
The invention relates to improving flux in osmotically driven membrane systems by promoting and controlling the growth of biofilms on a surface of the membrane.
Abstract:
Systems and methods for the storage of potential energy that may be readily converted to electrical power delivered to a customer or grid distribution are disclosed. This method may involve the use of salinity gradients, or as they may be also described, osmotic pressure gradients or differences between two solutions, to produce hydraulic pressure in a concentrated solution, allowing for the generation of power.
Abstract:
Separation processes using engineered osmosis are disclosed generally involving the extraction of solvent from a first solution to concentrate solute by using a second concentrated solution to draw the solvent from the first solution across a semi-permeable membrane. One or both of the solute and solvent may be a desired product. Enhanced efficiency may result from using low grade waste heat from industrial or commercial sources.
Abstract:
A spiral wound membrane module for forward osmotic use is disclosed. The membrane module may generally include a forward osmosis membrane in a spiral wound configuration. The module may include two inlets and two outlets, and may define first and second fluid flow paths. The inlets to each of the fluid flow paths may be generally isolated so as to prevent mixing. In some embodiments, the membrane module may include a distributer region and a collector region.
Abstract:
Embodiment methods and systems for controlling the solubility of solutes in a membrane separation process are provided. Controlling solubility includes introducing a signal input to at least one solution used in the membrane separation process, such that the signal input changes the solubility of at least one solute in the at least one solution. Introducing the signal input is selected from the group of applying electromagnetic radiation to the at least one solution, applying mechanical input to the at least one solution, applying vibratory input to the at least one solution, changing a magnetic field of the at least one solution, introducing a secondary solute to the at least one solution, and removing a substance from the at least one solution.
Abstract:
The invention relates to membrane modules and applications therefor. In particular, the invention relates to the construction of membrane modules for use in forward osmosis, heat exchange, and distillation processes.
Abstract:
Separation processes using osmotically driven membrane systems are disclosed generally involving the extraction of solvent from a first solution to concentrate solute by using a second concentrated solution to draw the solvent from the first solution across a semi-permeable membrane. Enhanced efficiency may result from using low grade waste heat from industrial or commercial sources. Pre-treatment and post-treatment may also enhance the osmotically driven membrane processes.
Abstract:
The invention generally relates to thin film composite heat exchangers and methods of making thin film composite heat exchangers. The heat exchangers can be made with polymers or other materials including, but not limited to, inorganic materials such as silicon, clay, ceramic, brick, or metal. Heat exchangers in accordance with the invention may be made of a material that is non-corrosive, durable, and that may be applied in a thin coating so as to minimize resistance to heat transfer and material costs.
Abstract:
Separation processes using engineered osmosis are disclosed generally involving the extraction of solvent from a first solution to concentrate solute by using a second concentrated solution to draw the solvent from the first solution across a semi-permeable membrane. Enhanced efficiency may result from using low grade waste heat from industrial or commercial sources.