Membrane surface engineering for bio-products separation: Innovations for higher efficiency
Ziran Su, Mingbo Ji, K. Jankowska, Shiyu Xiao, Jianquan Luo, Manuel Pinelo
Abstract
Ultrafiltration (UF) is widely used for bio-product separation due to its ability to selectively separate proteins, saccharides, lipids and other biological compounds based on size and molecular weight. Despite its advantages, UF faces several challenges: concentration polarization – the accumulation of retained molecules near the membrane can reduce separation performance; membrane fouling – proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides can deposit on the membrane surface, reducing filtration efficiency and requiring frequent cleaning; membrane selectivity limitations. Membrane surface properties such as hydrophilicity, charge, roughness, pore size and its distribution influence the interactions between the UF membranes and biomolecules thus leading to variations in filtration efficiency, selectivity, fouling propensity, and overall UF performance. Tuning these properties can effectively mitigate concentration polarization by reducing solute accumulation, promoting uniform shear, and minimizing local flux heterogeneity. Surface modification offers a powerful approach to improving UF membrane properties for bio-product separation by reducing fouling, enhancing selectivity, and increasing membrane lifespan. This article explores the relationship between membrane properties and separation performance, reviewing and comparing various surface modification technologies designed to enhance UF membrane characteristics. Additionally, it highlights advancements in UF membrane modification and their applications in bio-product separation processes.