Optimised product and water recovery from batch-production rinsing waters

Product concentrate can be recovered from rinsing waters [cleaning in place (CIP)] of surfactant and detergent batch production processes by using ultrafiltration and nanofiltration membranes. The problem in designing a separation process for the rinsing water is that the different compositions of the CIP-batches result in different treatment characteristics. The product formulations considered in this study are based on anionic and non-ionic surfactants. Detergents additionally contain salts, dyes, perfumes and solvents. Product solution enrichment by means of ultrafiltration membranes was investigated. Flux behaviour and selectivity are modelled on the basis of the experimental results as a basis for economic optimisation of the recovery process. The model is validated with the experimental data. The simulation model is used to calculate optimal design and operation parameters for a multi-stage UF concentration plant. An optimal number of feed-and-bleed-stages can be found under economic constraints. For water purification, a nanofiltration step has to be implemented for some of the surfactant CIP-batches. Depending on the separation characteristics, the batches are treated with a single (UF) or two-step membrane process (NF/ UF).