Process Modeling for Membrane Separation Systems

Membrane separation is a cornerstone of modern chemical engineering, water treatment, and biotechnology. Understanding how to mathematically model these systems is essential for designing efficient, scalable separation processes. In this text-based course, you will transition from basic physical principles to constructing robust mathematical models of membrane transport. You will learn to analyze concentration polarization, fouling, and multi-component separation using systematically structured equations and modern numerical approaches. What you'll learn: - Understand the fundamental principles of membrane separation and transport mechanisms. - Formulate mathematical models for reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, and gas separation. - Analyze mass transfer coefficients, concentration polarization, and gel layer formation. - Apply numerical methods to solve steady-state and transient transport equations. - Evaluate membrane performance parameters including flux, rejection, and recovery rates. - Explore modern modeling approaches for advanced systems like membrane bioreactors and forward osmosis. Starting with core definitions and transport phenomena, the course guides you step-by-step through writing and solving the governing equations for various membrane modules. You will study detailed derivations and practical calculation scenarios entirely through structured written explanations and step-by-step mathematical workflows. Designed for chemical engineering students, process engineers, and researchers new to separation modeling, this course requires no prior advanced modeling experience. Begin reading today to build a strong foundation in membrane process simulation.