Microcoagulation: New horizons for ultrafiltration
In the 80s, SUEZ ENVIRONNEMENT played a major role in developing ultrafiltration membranes for use in water treatment. Developed jointly by the CERDEG and CIRSEE teams, the microcoagulation process has significantly improved membrane performance.
Already protected by four patents, this process consists in the upstream injection of a minimal dose of coagulant, 30 to 80 times less than that currently used in water treatment. The reagent then forms a protective layer on the membrane surface, which can be easily removed by backwashing.
Microcoagulation, which has received various in-house awards, affords better clogging control and has expanded the area of application of membranes used originally for karstic type resources. It improves flow by 20 to 60% and respects the environment and public health. This technique has been successfully tested for the production of drinking water, recycling of wastewater and for seawater desalination pre-treatment. Microcoagulation optimises membrane performance and offers new horizons for ultrafiltration technology.
