Membrane emulsification in extraction processes

The application of the membrane emulsification (ME) method for extraction of poor target component from multicomponent solutions is analyzed in this review. The principle of ME and the mathematical model for estimation of droplets of the medium size are described. The ceramics is proposed as an optimal material of membrane for the extraction process, it allows one to solve the problem of interaction of membrane with solvents used as an extractants. The methods to supply with the required size and polydispersity of droplets for different types of membranes are considered. The results of investigation of ME processes for different extractants are shown. The different ways of demulsification are described. The separation scheme of the stable poor emulsions, consisting of stages of coalescence and membrane separation, is proposed.