Finite element analysis as a tool for crossflow membrane filter simulation

Finite element analysis (FEA) is a very powerful tool in analyzing many engineering problems. In this study, FEA was used to simulate the development of concentration polarization in ultrafiltration of protein solutions. A miniature crossflow membrane filter was developed to verify the FEA models. Polysulfone membrane disks (47 mm) were used in this study. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) solutions of different concentrations were pumped across the membrane flow channel. The crossflow velocity of the feed solution was carefully controlled at the laminar region. With the flow velocities within the flow channel estimated by a perturbation solution, the protein concentration on the membrane surface and the mass transfer coefficient were accurately predicted by FEA. This simulation method may provide a useful tool in engineering analysis and design of a membrane filtration process. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.