scope:

Foreword

Since the early 1990s, there has been rapid growth in the use of low-pressure hollow fiber microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) membrane processes for the production of drinking water. A number of factors have contributed to this growth, including promulgation of new regulations, a decline in costs of the technology, a wider range of MF and UF applications, and improvements in the system design and operation.

MF and UF initially gained rapid acceptance as processes that provide a high level of particle, turbidity, and microorganism removal. They are now being employed in conjunction with various unit processes to provide removal of both organic and inorganic materials.

This manual was developed to describe MF and UF technology for operators, administrators, engineers, scientists, educators, and anyone seeking an introduction to these processes. Chapters on water quality, membrane science and theory, system concepts, MF and UF membrane manufacturers, applications/case studies, pilot testing, design concepts, operations, cost, residuals management, and future trends are presented.

As this is the first edition of AWWA Manual M53, Microfiltration and Ultrafiltration Membranes for Drinking Water, the Membrane Processes Committee and the American Water Works Association welcome comments and suggestions for improving future editions. Please send them as an e-mail attachment to the AWWA water quality engineer at eharring@awwa.org or in hard copy to 6666 W. Quincy Ave., Denver, CO 80235.