ECONOMIC-ASSESSMENT OF MEMBRANE PROCESSES FOR WATER AND WASTE-WATER TREATMENT

Membrane processes are increasingly being considered as an alternative to conventional water and waste water treatment methods in anticipati on of future demands for high standards and reduced environmental impa ct. However, the use of membranes for these applications is currently limited by the high capital and operating costs with which they are as sociated. This paper looks at the economics of membrane processes for water and waste water applications. The results of extensive pilot pla nt trials have been used to determine the cost of treatment using a ra nge of ultrafiltration and microfiltration membranes. The most signifi cant factors influencing the overall cost were found to be membrane co st, membrane replacement frequency and power. The importance of select ing the most suitable membrane and optimum operating conditions for ea ch application is demonstrated. A comparison has been made between the costs of membrane systems and conventional treatment processes. Some application areas have been identified where membranes are cost-effect ive.