Impact of membrane housing height on oil retention and filtration efficiency in quartz-based separation systems

Abstract

The increasing global demand for cost-effective and high-performance oil–water separation systems has intensified interest in optimizing membrane-based technologies. This study explores the influence of membrane housing height on the filtration efficiency of quartz-based membranes modified with hydrophilic nanoparticles. Using synthetic oily wastewater with an initial oil concentration of 39,567.4 mg/L, the separation performance was evaluated at membrane housing heights of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, and 4 mm. A pressure-driven quartz membrane system was employed, and separation efficacy was quantified via gravimetric oil and grease analysis. The results revealed a substantial inverse relationship between membrane height and residual oil concentration, decreasing from 3,761.5 mg/L at 1 mm to 1.2 mg/L at 4 mm. Enhanced performance at increased heights is attributed to improved fluid dynamics and more effective membrane–oil interactions. Supporting characterizations using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed structural stability and more uniform oil distribution at higher membrane positions. These findings underscore the importance of membrane housing design in maximizing oil rejection and optimizing water recovery in industrial oily wastewater treatment. This research provides valuable insights for the development of next-generation quartz-based filtration systems, promoting energy efficiency, operational stability, and sustainable water reuse.