Membrane contactors: fundamentals, membrane materials and key operations

n this chapter, membrane contactor technology is discussed as an original, non-traditional solution to the increasing demand for technologies conducive to sustainable environmental preservation and more competitive industrial growth. Basic principles, design and applications in strategic fields, including water management based on naturally-powered membrane operations, are outlined. The advantages and limitations of key fabrication and module-design techniques are examined, before three of the most innovative membrane contactor operations - membrane distillation (MD), osmotic membrane distillation and crystallisation - are investigated in depth. Extensive analysis is conducted into the mechanisms of transport, influence of operating conditions and potential applications of this easy-to-use technology in future advanced and integrated industrial production cycles.