Sweep gas membrane distillation in a membrane contactor with metallic hollow-fibers
Abstract(#br)This work revolves around the use of porous metal hollow fibers in membrane distillation. Various stages are covered, starting from membrane synthesis up to the testing of a pilot scale membrane module. Mechanically stable metal hollow fibers have been synthesized by phase inversion of a stainless steel particle loaded polymer solution, followed by thermal treatment to remove the polymer and sinter the particles together. The pore surface of the metal fibers has been made hydrophobic by functionalization with polydimethylsiloxane or stearic acid.