Ultrafiltration Membrane Process for Municipal Wastewater Treatment: A Review

The objective of this study is to present ultrafiltration (UF) technology as a practical and efficient option for wastewater treatment in various contexts. The continuous depletion of freshwater resources due to the growing population and other factors has prompted researchers to seek innovative and cost-effective solutions. The utilization of membrane technology for water recovery and reuse from diverse types of wastewater has become increasingly prevalent.This comprehensive review highlights the most significant UF methods and their applications in the treatment of wastewater. Statistical information and specific results from previous studies are incorporated to provide a quantitative perspective on the performance of UF technology. The average removal efficiencies of UF for suspended solids, colloids, and microorganisms are reported as 95%, 98%, and 99.9%, respectively, based on a meta-analysis of50 relevant studies. The review also highlights the cost-effectiveness of UF technology compared to traditional treatment methods, with an estimated reduction in operational costs by 30% and a water recovery rate of up to 95%. UF technology offers a promising solution for effective wastewater treatment and water reuse. Its high removal efficiencies, broad applicability, and potential cost savings make it a viable option for addressing the challenges posed by water scarcity and pollution.