Multi-channel membrane distillation modules: Experimental and CFD insights into enhanced performance and energy efficiency

Membrane Distillation (MD) has emerged as a promising technology for water treatment, particularly in treating high-salinity waters and brine management. This study introduces two advanced MD module designs - Multiple Feed Channels (MFC) and Multiple Permeate Channels (MPC) - that address the limitations of traditional Single Channel (SC) configurations. Through a systematic evaluation using PTFE and PVDF membranes with and without spacers across a range of feed temperatures (30–70 °C), we demonstrate that the MFC and MPC modules significantly enhance permeate flux and energy efficiency. Under practical conditions, the MFC and MPC modules achieved up to 39 % and 86 % higher flux, respectively, and reduced the Specific Energy Consumption (SEC) by up to 51 % and 63 %, respectively, compared to the SC module. Complementary computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling validated these findings, providing insights into the fluid flow, temperature distribution, and mass transfer mechanisms within the modules. The findings provide valuable insights into developing more energy-efficient water treatment technologies, paving the way for the commercial viability of advanced MD systems.