Fouling and Flux Restoration of Ultrafiltration of Passion Fruit Juice

Abstract

ABSTRACT Fouling phenomena of passion fruit juice in tubular ultrafiltration (UF) system were studied. The membrane deposit was found to be composed of pectin, sugars, citric acid, hemicellulose, and cellulose. Rinsing behaviour of the fouled membrane indicated that the deposit might be in the form of gel. Scanning electron microscopic examinations showed slime‐like deposit on the fouled membrane. Intermittent on‐off operation was able to restore the flux effectively. Rebounding of the gel layer at sudden release of pressure may explain the effect of on‐off operation on flux restoration.