Elaboration and properties of low-cost ceramic microfiltration membrane from local Tunisian clay for wastewater treatment

Elaboração e propriedades de membrana cerâmica de microfiltração de baixo custo com argila tunisina para tratamento de efluentes

Abstract

This study focused on the development and preparation of a microfiltration membrane, based on a low-cost natural Tunisian clay powder, deposited on macro-porous ceramic support. The deposit was made through a dip-coating technique, followed by a drying process and sintering at 700 °C. Results revealed that the obtained membrane was characterized by a good adhesion between the membrane layer and the ceramic support, an average pore diameter of 0.34 mm, and a porosity of 39%. This membrane was applied in the treatment of wastewater generated by the wastewater treatment plant of Sfax, Tunisia. The performances in terms of permeate flux and efficiency were determined in order to reduce the pollutant content expressed in terms of turbidity, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅), and suspended matter (MES). Results showed an MES retention value of about 15%, and turbidity and BOD₅ retention rate of 99% and ~100%, respectively.

Keywords: clay; membrane; microfiltration; ceramic; wastewater