Modelling and optimization of pervaporation membrane modules: A critical review

Pervaporation (PV) has been regarded as a promising separation technology for purification of organic solvents, dehydration of chemicals, removal of volatile organic compounds, extraction of phenols, and desalination. Compared to conventional separation technologies such as distillation and adsorption, PV shows excellent advantages i.e., high efficiency, mild conditions, and low energy consumption. However, the PV modules used to house the PV membrane are a key factor limiting the large-scale application of PV technology. Many efforts have therefore been devoted to the optimization of PV modules in recent years. This review summarizes recent progress on modelling and optimization of different types of PV modules and provides an outline of existing challenges and future research directions for the development of PV modules. The rules and tools presented here together with their general implications for module modelling and optimization can hopefully provide valuable guidance and suggestions for PV modules and even for other membrane modules.