Challenges in membrane-based liquid phase separations

Abstract

Membranes are widely used in separation processes due to their low energy requirement, small footprint and simplicity. New membranes have been developed based on novel materials and fabrication techniques to address separation challenges in the field of membrane science. In the case of liquid phase separations, ion-ion separation and chiral resolution using membranes have attracted growing interest for their applications such as in high-value mineral extraction and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Furthermore, reverse osmosis operation favors ultra-high-pressure range for treating feed with higher salinity with higher water recovery. Herein we highlight the latest development and design approaches of single species-selective membranes and pressure-resistant membranes and discuss the current limitations of membrane separation in the liquid phase. We subsequently review recent advancement in the fabrication techniques that enable the making of these membranes from emerging materials.