A Statistical Approach to Determine Efficient Fouling Index

Abstract

<span>Desalination using a reverse osmosis (RO) membrane is a complex process that requires preventive maintenance to control the <span>fouling potential of feed water for long-term successful operation. Fouling is caused by scaling, bacterial growth, or the <span>deposition of suspended or dissolved substances. The widely accepted measure of the fouling potential is the silt density index <span>(SDI). We conducted filtering experiments under diverse conditions to gain new insight into the performance and deficiencies of <span>the SDI from a statistical point of view. Based on the results, we developed a new fouling index that is more reliable and feasible <span>than the SDI.</span></span></span></span></span><br /><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></span>