Nanofiltration

Nanofiltration (NF) is an advanced membrane separation process that falls between reverse osmosis (RO) and ultrafiltration (UF) in terms of membrane pore size. With a nominal molecular weight cutoff range of 200-1000 Daltons, nanofiltration allows for the selective separation of ions and small molecules, making it a versatile technology in various industries. The membrane's unique properties enable the retention of divalent ions and larger organic molecules while allowing the passage of monovalent ions and smaller solutes. One significant application of nanofiltration is in water treatment. It is employed for the removal of contaminants such as heavy metals, salts, and organic compounds, providing an effective means of producing high-quality drinking water and industrial process water. Nanofiltration is also utilized in the food and beverage industry for concentrating and fractionating components like proteins and polyphenols. The efficiency of nanofiltration is influenced by parameters such as pressure, temperature, and feed concentration. As a relatively energy-efficient process, nanofiltration has gained popularity for its ability to operate at lower pressures compared to reverse osmosis, resulting in reduced energy consumption. Ongoing research and development continue to expand the applications of nanofiltration, showcasing its potential in addressing complex separation challenges in various fields.