Researchers: Achintya Bezbaruah (PI), Aditya Goyal
In collaboration with PPG industry (Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company), and the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), microbial biofouling assessments were conducted to quantify bacterial fouling on flat membrane sheets and feed spacer materials provided by PPG to identify optimally performing combinations that effectively mitigate microbial biofouling during graywater filtration applications. Pilot-scale skid experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance, fouling behavior, and cleaning efficacy of membranes under simulated greywater conditions. By conducting step pressure tests and greywater experiments, comprehensive data sets were collected to analyze membrane durability, operational efficiency, and possible cleaning strategies.