Micro and Ultrafiltration Performance Specifications Based on Microbial Removal

This project develops a systematic performance testing protocol and specification for microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) membranes with respect to removal of viral and submicron bacterial pathogens. Both UF and MF have the capability to remove viruses (and submicron bacteria); however, the extent of removal is based on a number of factors including the membrane and the organism, as well as water quality and operational conditions. If membranes are to be employed on a more widespread basis for microbial removal, then their classification should be based on their ability to remove microorganisms, not on their nominal pore size. Rigorous microbial challenge studies at pilot scale are often prohibitively costly or considered hazardous.?