Membrane separation apparatus and method
US4787982A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 9, 1986 |
| Grant date | Nov 29, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 9, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01D63/068
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Continuous flow membrane separation is accomplished by apparatus adaptable for osmosis, dialysis, and electrodialysis. For electrodialysis to separate from one another, in a single step, multiple differing molecular weight components of fluids, a series of adjoining flow chambers are all separated from one another by semipermeable membranes and at least one of the chambers is separated from each adjoining chamber by a membrane having a molecular weight cutoff different from that of the membrane separating it from the other chamber adjoining it. To insure that neither the crude to be processed nor the desired product comes into contact with an electrode which could be deleterious, there is provided a minimum of four flow chambers adjoining one another in sequence. Adapted for all three separation processes is an assembly of a tubular membrane encircled by a flexible reinforcing mesh fabric with pressure in the fluid within the membrane sufficient to bulge the membrane radially and outward into the interstices of the mesh fabric to eliminate dead spots in fluid flow along the exterior of the membrane and sufficient to stiffen and straighten the membrane tube into essentially the form…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.