The University of Queensland

Engineered Inorganic Membranes for Novel Mineral Brine Processing (2014–2017)

Abstract:

This project aims to synthesise a new generation of engineered hierarchical membranes for novel brine processing. The key concept of the research is the precise tailoring of pores of inorganic films, forming functional meso-structures for separating salts from water. Salt crystallises perpendicular to the surface of the membrane, whilst easily removed by air, a process that can be repeated many times leading to high production rates. The hierarchical membranes will be studied to elucidate the relationships between structure, composition, surface properties and transport phenomena. The outcomes should advance brine processing separation technologies for the mineral industry (lithium, potassium, and magnesium).

Grant type:

ARC Discovery Projects

Researchers:

• 

  Associate Professor James Vaughan

  Associate Professor
  

  School of Chemical Engineering

  Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology

Funded by:

Australian Research Council