Airfoil-shaped micro-mixers for reducing fouling on membrane surfaces

Patent Number: 8,292,492
Issued: 10/23/2012
Official Filing: View the Complete Patent
Abstract: An array of airfoil-shaped micro-mixers that enhances fluid mixing within permeable membrane channels, such as used in reverse-osmosis filtration units, while minimizing additional pressure drop. The enhanced mixing reduces fouling of the membrane surfaces. The airfoil-shaped micro-mixer can also be coated with or comprised of biofouling-resistant (biocidal/germicidal) ingredients.
Filed: 11/11/2008
Application Number: 12/268,542
Government Interests: STATEMENT OF GOVERNMENT INTEREST This invention was made with Government support under Contract No. DE-NA0003525 awarded by the United States Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration. The Government has certain rights in the invention.