Separation techniques in different configurations of hybrid systems via synergetic adsorption and membrane processes for water treatment: A review

The membrane separation process is sometimes limited in terms of performance; therefore, coupling it with other methods, such as adsorption, can exert a synergistic effect, overcome membrane fouling, and improve energy efficiency, which is especially suitable for separating mixtures. Adsorption and mem-brane filtration are two well-known separation techniques with several noteworthy characteristics, including a strong scientific foundation, adaptability, simple process management and design, and great capability to remove many impurities. Consequently, these techniques are possible candidates for hybrid systems. This review provides an overview of the most recent studies on adsorption-membrane hybrid systems that use various adsorbents and membranes to remove pollutants from water and wastewater streams. This study examines emerging hybrid adsorption-membrane technologies with different configurations for wastewater treatment, their benefits and drawbacks, hybrid system designs, and their utilization. It discusses the application of various adsorbents in hybrid systems. Finally, it presents recommendations for future research on applying hybrid adsorption-membrane technology to wastewater treatment. The adsorbents have served as "helpers" for the membrane, leading to decreasing the membrane fouling and increasing the flux of permeate at the same time by breaking the formed concentration polarization layer on the surface of the membrane.(c) 2023 The Korean Society of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.