ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of membrane distillation (MD) technology. Since it was first invented in 1963, MD experienced a temporary brilliance, followed by a tough period, and then a powerful revival recently. The historical development of MD and its current status would be summarized in details. Due to its special working principles, MD possesses several unique advantages compared to the traditional distillation and conventional membrane separation processes. Therefore, it has been explored for wide applications in various industries. Nevertheless, MD also faces great challenges that prevent it from being fully commercialized. In this chapter, both advantages and challenges of MD will be elaborated and this chapter aims to be a useful introduction for readers who are interested in the MD technology.
