Description
Thermally driven separation process
Technical
Membrane distillation (MD) is a thermally driven separation process in which separation is driven by phase change. A hydrophobic membrane presents a barrier for the liquid phase, allowing the vapour phase to pass through the membrane's pores. The driving force of the process is a partial vapour pressure difference commonly triggered by a temperature difference.
Parameters
Temperature
50°C optimal
0°C to 100°C range
Temperature range for optimal membrane distillation
Time
1 hour
30 minutes – 2 hours
Equipment
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
Compounds: Water vapor, Ethanol, Methanol
Taste
Texture
Wine Analogy
Similar to vacuum distillation used in wine aroma concentration
Coffee Analogy
Resembles cold brew concentration methods
Perfume Analogy
Comparable to enfleurage for delicate fragrance capture
Origin & History
Civilization
Ancient Greeks
Era
5th century BCE
Region
Mediterranean
Spread Path
Trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road