Journal
JOURNAL OF MEMBRANE SCIENCE
Volume 231, Issue 1-2, Pages 81-90Publisher
ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV
DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2003.11.005
Keywords
membrane spacers; CFD; direct numerical simulation
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This work is aimed at obtaining a better understanding of transport phenomena in membrane elements, where feed-flow spacers (employed to separate membrane sheets and create flow channels) tend to enhance mass transport characteristics, possibly mitigating fouling and concentration polarization phenomena, while augmenting pressure drop. A model flow geometry is considered consisting of a plane-channel, where a regular array of cylinders is inserted, acting as turbulence promoters. Direct numerical simulations using the Navier-Stokes equations are performed over a range of Reynolds numbers typical of such membrane modules. The results show that the flow becomes unstable at a critical Reynolds number of 60, and progressively tends to a chaotic state. Qualitative flow features, such as the development and separation of boundary layers, vortex formation, the presence of high-shear regions and recirculation zones, and the underlying mechanisms are examined. In addition. quantitative statistical characteristics such as time-averaged velocities, Reynolds stresses, wall-shear rates and pressure drop are obtained, which are directly related to mass transport enhancement. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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