DEVICES AND METHODS USING POROUS MEMBRANES FOR OIL-WATER EMULSION SEPARATION

摘要

The invention provides methods and devices that use membranes to separate oil/water mixtures. The methods and devices have a wide range of applications, including deep seep oil exploration, oil purification, and oil spill cleanup. In some embodiments, at least one first membrane is provided, the first membrane being hydrophilic and oleophobic. The first membrane allows passage of water therethrough In some embodiments, a second membrane that is hydrophobic and oleophilic is provided in addition to the first membrane. The second membrane allows passage of oil therethrough.

主权项

1. A method for performing an oil/water separation, the method comprising:
providing a membrane that is either hydrophilic and oleophobic or hydrophobic and oleophilic depending on a polarity of a contacting medium; passing a first liquid stream or volume comprising oil and water, and having a first water to oil ratio, wherein the first ratio is greater than 1; contacting the first liquid stream or volume with the membrane, wherein the membrane is hydrophilic and oleophobic during contact with the first stream or volume and allows passage of water therethrough; andcontacting a second liquid stream or volume with the membrane, wherein the second liquid stream or volume has a second water to oil ratio less than 1, and wherein the membrane is hydrophobic and oleophilic during contact with the second stream or volume, and does not allow passage of water therethrough.