Energy-efficient Methods for Controlling Biofouling in Water Treatment Membranes and Future Directions
2025
Taemin Jeong | Sangsik Kim
This paper aims to address the critical issue of biofouling in water treatment membrane systems, which decreases operational efficiency and increases energy consumption. The study explores energy-efficient biofouling control methods, focusing on established and emerging technologies. The review examines various approaches, including surface modification, antimicrobial nanomaterials, and photocatalytic membranes. Techniques using zwitterionic polymers, amphiphilic coatings, silver nanoparticles (nAg), and nanodiamonds (UDD) are analyzed for their effectiveness in mitigating biofouling. Photocatalytic membranes employing Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are also evaluated for their sustainable microbial inhibition capabilities. Surface modification techniques demonstrated the potential to alter membrane hydrophilicity, effectively preventing microbial adhesion and biofilm formation. Incorporating antimicrobial nanomaterials such as nAg and UDD disrupted microbial cell membranes and enhanced hydrophilicity, significantly increasing biofouling resistance. Photocatalytic membranes utilizing MOFs produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light exposure, providing a sustainable and energy-efficient approach to biofouling control. However, the integration of real-time monitoring systems and AI-based predictive models remains necessary to further optimize membrane performance and reduce energy consumption. The development of multifunctional membranes that combine biofouling resistance with resource recovery capabilities is essential to tackle the global water crisis and ensure access to clean water. Continued research in integrating advanced technologies such as AI and sustainable materials will be pivotal in advancing energy-efficient biofouling control.
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