Modeling and Simulation of Multi-Effect Membrane Distillation Systems

E.ELZanati, Elham; M.Kheder, Maaly; Helmy, Eman Farag; E.Taha, Esraa

doi:10.21608/ejchem.2022.157413.6820

Modeling and Simulation of Multi-Effect Membrane Distillation Systems

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Department, Engineering Research Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, Egypt. Postal cod 12622

² Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Department, Engineering Research Division, National Research Centre, 33El-Bohouth St. (Former El Tahrir St.), Dokki, Giza, Egypt, P.O. box 1262.

³ Chemical engineering and pilot plant department, engineering research and renewable energy institute,national research centre

10.21608/ejchem.2022.157413.6820

Abstract

Membrane distillation is a thermal and pressure-driven process through hydrophobic microporous membranes, it is a promising technology for water desalination. In this article, a modeling and simulation approach of Multi-Effect Vacuum Membrane Distillation (MEVMD), was implemented and verified using the experimental results of small scale locally designed and manufactured system, using an early prepared hydrophobic microporous membrane. The energy economization of the system is enhanced through latent heat recycling. Theoretical analysis of this system was achieved through the development of a lumped parameter model to describe the MEVMD performance. The developed model was solved numerically for different design and operating conditions using MATLAB Simulink software. The model was verified and validated using the experimental results to achieve a reliable tool for design, replication, scaling-up, and optimization.

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