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Nanofiltration is a process where a fluid is filtered through a membrane, separating impurities. It can be used for water purification, desalination, and even by individuals for camping or home use. The filters have small pores and need to be periodically cleaned or replaced.
Nanofiltration is a filtration process in which a fluid is encouraged to pass over a membrane which acts almost like a sieve to separate impurities. The membrane blocks impurities in the fluid, allowing only the fluid and some monovalent ions to pass, while trapping unwanted materials on the other side. There are numerous applications for nanofiltration, ranging from the purification of dairy products to the processing of drinking water, and a number of companies manufacture nanofiltration equipment and supplies.
In this process a pressure differential is created between the two sides of the membrane which encourages the impure, unfiltered substance to work its way through the membrane. A variety of materials can be used to make the membrane, depending on what is being filtered. When the fluid pushes against the membrane, particles too large to pass through it bounce back. The purified fluid on the other hand can be collected and further processed, released or packaged, depending on what it is and how it is used.
This type of filtration can be used to address pollution in water supplies, chemical spills, impurities in drinking water and other human consumed fluids, and in desalination. Developing effective desalination techniques is of interest to people in many regions of the world as water scarcity is a critical issue and the ability to provide potable water or irrigation from saline sources can be very valuable.
In addition to being used on an industrial scale, nanofiltration can also be used by private individuals. Beverage filters designed for use by campers who want to drink from natural water sources rather than packing water at a campsite can be made with nanofiltration filters in place, and people can also use this type of filtration to process the drinking water in their homes, or to feed a whole house filter designed to remove any lingering impurities in the water before it reaches your home plumbing.
Only very small molecules can pass through a nanofiltration device. Filters usually have pores that are approximately 001 microns thick, although the thickness can vary depending on the design. Like other membrane filters, a nanofilter will need to be periodically removed and cleaned or replaced with a new filter, as the pores in the filter become clogged over time, slowing down and eventually blocking the filtration process altogether. Replacement filters are usually readily available.
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