Progress on Improved Fouling Resistance-Nanofibrous Membrane for Membrane Distillation: A Mini-Review

Nanofibrous membranes for membrane distillation (MD) have demonstrated promising results in treating various water and wastewater streams. Significant progress has been made in recent decades because of the development of sophisticated membrane materials, such as superhydrophobic, omniphobic and Janus membranes. However, fouling and wetting remain crucial issues for long-term operation. This mini-review summarizes ideas as well as their limitations in understanding the fouling in membrane distillation, comprising organic, inorganic and biofouling. This review also provides progress in developing antifouling nanofibrous membranes for membrane distillation and ongoing modifications on nanofiber membranes for improved membrane distillation performance. Lastly, challenges and future ways to develop antifouling nanofiber membranes for MD application have been systematically elaborated. The present mini-review will interest scientists and engineers searching for the progress in MD development and its solutions to the MD fouling issues.

Automated summary

Nanofibrous membranes have shown promise in membrane distillation for water and wastewater treatment, but fouling and wetting are still critical issues. This mini-review discusses the understanding and limitations of fouling in membrane distillation, including organic, inorganic, and biofouling. It also highlights progress in developing anti-fouling nanofibrous membranes and modifications for improved performance. Challenges and future directions for developing anti-fouling nanofiber membranes for membrane distillation are systematically addressed.