New techniques for operating spiral-wound membranes at temperatures as
high as 90 degrees C have been welcomed by users in the pharmaceutica
l, biotech, electronics, power plant, food production, and similar ind
ustries. The performance characteristics of Duratherm(R) reverse osmos
is, nanofiltration, and ultrafiltration elements at high temperature a
re described. The advantages include hot water sanitizing, flux enhanc
ement, and heat recovery. Process economics are reviewed.