ABSTRACT

Microfiltration with the largest pore size of 0.1-10 μm is commonly used to separate suspended particulates, large colloids, and bacteria; hence, it is suitable for the treatment of water that has high turbidity and low color or organics content (Schafer, 2001). Similarly, ultrafiltration (0.001-0.1 μm) can exclude macromolecules and fine colloidal suspensions such as proteins, dyes, and bacteria, but the removal of dissolved organics is limited. MF and UF can also be used as pretreatment for NF and RO processes (Schafer, 2001).