Membrane Fouling Mechanisms and Control Strategies in Environmental Remediation

This chapter systematically deciphers the mechanisms and control strategies of membrane fouling to support advancements in environmental remediation technologies. Section 6.2 categorizes major fouling types, including organic, inorganic, biological, colloidal, and chemical fouling, while also distinguishing between reversible, irreversible, and irrecoverable fouling stages. Section 6.3 delves into the underlying physicochemical and biological mechanisms that drive these fouling processes, providing a detailed understanding of their origins and progression. Section 6.4 reviews both conventional and emerging mitigation strategies, including pretreatment methods, physical and chemical cleaning techniques, surface modification, anti-fouling membrane development, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) for real-time monitoring and fouling prediction. By bridging theory with practical application, this chapter offers comprehensive insight into prolonging membrane lifespan and improving operational efficiency. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners striving to design more resilient membrane systems for sustainable environmental remediation and water treatment applications.