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This approach reduces biofouling by using X-ray irradiation and ultraviolet-emitting materials to reduce bacterial growth and biofilms. Biofouling is a critical issue in membrane water and waste water treatment as it greatly compromises the efficiency of the treatment processes. It is difficult to control and results in increased operational costs and poor performance. Current anti-biofouling techniques involve chemical cleaning steps or antimicrobial surfaces which have proven inadequate over long-term operation for many feed waters. In contrast, Clemson University researchers have developed an anti-biofouling approach that can inactivate bacteria without introducing chemicals into the feed water and without pausing operation of the membrane treatment process. This is accomplished by incorporating radio-luminescent materials onto the module feed spacers and applying an external X-ray source to produce germicidal UVC within the membrane element.

Applications:

Reverse osmosis; water purification

Technical Summary:

Germicidal ultraviolet radiation is an effective, broad spectrum biocide. By controlling the x-ray dose rate, the biocidal action of the system may be tuned to meet changing conditions. The phosphors in this technology are designed to emit ultraviolet radiation when stimulated by hard x-rays within a certain range. When an external x-ray source is applied, they penetrate the module and are absorbed by the phosphors, producing ultraviolet radiation and eliminating bacteria within the system. This is the first method to achieve production of germicidal radiation within the interior of a spiral-wound membrane module.

Advantages:

• Reduces biofouling in water treatment/membrane water systems, increasing efficiency and decreasing

operation costs caused by degradation

• Uses ultraviolet radiation inside membrane modules, presenting a unique and effective approach to

eliminating bacteria

• Allows membrane to operate at maximum water fluxes with less pressure demand, extending

membrane lifetime

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Technology Overview

State of Development

Preliminary Prototype

Patent Type

Utility

Category

Biotechnology

Serial Number

14/882,773

CURF Reference No.

2015-021

Inventors

Ezra Cates


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