Changing the microstructure of membranes using an intense electric field: Filtration performance

Filtration experiments were performed to investigate the effect of treatment in an intense electric field on the separation performance of membranes. It was shown that, in principle, an intense electric field can be used to alter the filtration performance and microstructure of microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration and reverse osmosis membranes. The microstructure and chemical composition of the membranes were found to be the key factors in this process. It was also found that treatment in an intense electric field can affect the surface topography and, hence, the fouling behaviour of membranes. •Intense electric fields were used to alter the filtration performance of membranes.•This technique was examined on MF, UF, NF and RO membranes.•This technique generally increased rejection at a cost of relative flux decline.•It was also shown that electrically treated membranes have smoother surfaces.