State-of-the-art surface patterned membranes fabrication and applications: A review of the current status and future directions

Foulants build-up on the membrane surface followed by polarization is considered to be one of the most critical issues that have limited the application of membranes in different industries because they reduce the permeate flux, increase the required feed pressure, reduce the time intervals between chemical cleanings, and finally, shorten the lifetime of the membranes. Several strategies have been proposed to reduce and control the membrane polarization and fouling mitigation for increasing the permeate flux. The strategies include inserting different spacers and turbulence promoters, pulsation of feed, backpulsation of permeate, the introduction of air bubbles, patterning of the membrane surface, etc. Among these methods, surface patterning of membranes (MSPs) has been one of the most promising ways to reduce and control polarization at the membrane surface for mitigation of fouling which has recently received much attention. In this regard, in this paper, the state-of-the-art surface patterned membranes for the treatment of different feeds are reviewed. Also, various methods for fabrication and construction of the surface patterned polymeric membranes and the enhancements induced by the surface patterns on the membrane processes' performance are discussed in detail. Finally, the future perspective of this technology is forecast.& COPY; 2023 Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.