Abstract
Membrane separation processes are the preferred option for diverse commercial separations. This preference arises primarily from a reduction in separation costs due to reduced energy costs. The most common geometries for high-performance membranes are flat sheets and hollow fibers. Compact separation devices (i.e., modules) are fabricated from the membrane to facilitate fluid introduction and removal at the scale required industrially.Both hollow fiber and flat sheet membrane modules are available commercially. A common question asked by those developing new membrane materials is which geometry is preferable. The factors that influence this choice are discussed with emphasis on considerations for liquid separations. A review of the patent literature on membrane and module fabrication is presented [1] along with inherent manufacturing and performance limitations reported in the literature for both membrane geometries [2]. The trade-offs between the two geometries are explored to help future innovators evaluate the risks in geometry selection.