Characterization of biofouling with 3D-printed spacers using 3D optical coherence tomography

Biofouling in membrane filtration is a common occurrence which impedes the efficiency of the separation process. By looking into the biofouling mechanisms via the observation of a filtration process, potential problems can be addressed and resolved. This study uses optical coherence tomography (OCT)...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Chung, Ling Hao
Other Authors: Chong Tzyy Haur
Format: Final Year Project
Language:English
Published: 2019
Subjects:
Online Access:http://hdl.handle.net/10356/77845
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Institution: Nanyang Technological University
Language: English
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Summary:Biofouling in membrane filtration is a common occurrence which impedes the efficiency of the separation process. By looking into the biofouling mechanisms via the observation of a filtration process, potential problems can be addressed and resolved. This study uses optical coherence tomography (OCT) to investigate the effects of using different 3D-printed spacers on the biofouling process. A compilation of OCT scans of a representative unit cell of each spacer was taken as a function of time to generate 3D-images showing the morphology of a foulant layer. Through the usage of various quantitative analysing methods (such as EIS, DOTM and etc), the development of a foulant layer was obtained. Thus, showing the various biofouling mechanisms involved in a biofouling process.