Pressure-driven membrane applications: Microfiltration and ultrafiltration

An overview of microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) processes is provided. Basic principles, membrane materials and membrane module configurations involved in these operations are described, giving emphasis to advantages and shortcomings. Membrane fouling and concentration polarization phenomena, as well as methods to control and reduce their effects on membrane performance, are also discussed. Finally, well-established applications within food and beverages industries, including milk, fruit juices and wine processing, are reviewed highlighting their significant advantages over traditional methodologies and those which can be potentially achieved through the integration with other membrane operations. © 2013 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.