Patent ID: 6436290
Filing Date: 2002-08-20
Classification: B01D,C02F,C10G

Abstract:
A method for separating a mixture containing an aqueous liquid phase and an immiscible organic phase, into a substantially organic-free aqueous phase and a substantially aqueous-free organic phase, comprisinga) providing a plurality of hollow hydrophobic fibres having micropores therein and having exposed ends inaccessible to the mixture, the micropores extending from an outside surface of each fibre to a hollow interior portion thereof, b) pressurising the mixture in a controlled low shear manner to minimise emulsification of the organic and aqueous phases, such that the mixture is under higher pressure relative to the hollow interior of the fibres to provide a pressure differential between the mixture and the hollow interior of the fibres, c) contacting the fibres with the pressurised mixture, the pressure differential being sufficient to permit passage through the micropores of the immiscible organic phase, but insufficient to allow passage through the micropores of the aqueous phase, and for the fibres to collapse, d) collecting the substantially organic-free aqueous phase, and e) collecting the substantially free aqueous-free organic phase.