Novel and emerging membranes for water treatment by hydrostatic pressure and vapor pressure gradient membrane processes

Abstract Hydrostatic pressure (microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis) and vapor pressure gradient membrane processes (membrane distillation and pervaporation) have received increased attention since the 1980s for different water treatment applications. Significant progress on these processes has been achieved during the last ten years on the fabrication of novel membranes and their modification. Some related features for water treatment are highlighted. Novel flat sheet and hollow fiber membranes made with innovative materials and with improved properties suitable for specific applications are reviewed.