Towards improved membrane fouling modelling: from an empirical to a spatially explicit framework

In filtration modelling, traditional resistance in series models to describe fouling behaviour do not have the predictive power to be useful in scenario analysis, since their empirical nature and typical overcalibration hampers validation in other parts of the operational space. Instead, a new modelling framework for describing membrane fouling is presented based on an integration of computational fluid dynamics and individual-based models. This framework, in relation to similar trends in biokinetic modelling, allows for knowledge build-up on filtration behaviour that can be used to construct simplified but realistic fouling models. The key element of the presented approach is modelling individual (microscopic) particle movement to understand (macroscopic) bulk behaviour.