Solvent extraction in cross-flow multipass parallel-plate membrane modulesof fixed configuration

The effect of multipass arrangement on membrane extraction through a cross- flow rectangular module has been investigated both theoretically and experi mentally. In contrast to a single-pass device, improvement in mass transfer is obtained if cross-flow membrane extraction is operated in a multipass d evice of same configuration. It is concluded that multipass effect which pr ovides the increase of fluid velocity, can enhance mass transfer, especiall y for concentrated solution with high distribution coefficient where the li quid-phase mass-transfer resistances are more extremely predominant. (C) 20 01 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.