WO2016139654A1

WO2016139654A1 - Filtration membrane cartridge

Info

Publication number: WO2016139654A1
Application number: PCT/IL2016/050184
Authority: WO
Inventors: Arnon YOHANAN; Nir Lilach; Dmitry Golom; Moran BAZEL
Original assignee: Advanced Mem-Tech Ltd.
Priority date: 2015-03-04
Filing date: 2016-02-16
Publication date: 2016-09-09

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to filtration cartridge with a spiral wound membrane. Specifically, the disclosure is directed to a filtration cartridge combining adsorbent and filtration elements in a single cartridge, where fluid is channeled through the adsorbent and through the membranes.

Description

FILTRATION MEMBRANE CARTRIDGE

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure relates to filtration cartridge with a spiral wound membrane. Specifically, the disclosure relates to a filtration cartridge combining adsorbent and filtration elements in a single cartridge, where fluid is channeled through the adsorbent and through the membranes.

[0002] Filtration devices which contain semi-permeable membranes are used to effect liquid separations in a wide variety of applications, such as water purification, concentration of dilute mixtures or solutions, and waste treatment and/or recovery of recyclable components

[0003] Membranes are discrete interfaces that modulate the permeation and selectivity of chemical and biological species in contact with it. For example, water filtration membranes allow water to penetrate through the membrane while preventing penetration of target species. Solutes and suspended impurities, such as colloids, bacteria, viruses, oils, proteins, salts, or other species, can be removed using a membrane. Polymer filtration membranes can be categorized into porous and nonporous membranes. In porous membranes, the transport barrier is considered as based on differences between the sizes of permeate and retentate species. In nonporous membranes, such as those used for reverse osmosis, the species are separated by means of relative solubility and/or diffusivity in the membrane material. For nonporous membranes and porous membranes for nanofiltration, poor chemical affinity between the membrane material and permeate that is passed across the membrane material, e.g., water, may inhibit permeability of the permeate.

[0004] Important parameters that can characterize a good membrane for liquid filtration include high flux, fouling resistance, and/or selectivity in the desired size range. An

improvement in these properties can lead to improved membrane performance. A membrane exhibiting high flux may decrease the cost of energy for pumping the solution through the membrane, which can make the process economical. Membranes that exhibit more uniform pore sizes can have higher selectivity and/or higher efficiency.

[0005] Conventional spiral membrane cartridges typically have a plurality of membrane elements, with feed spacers interposed between the elements, in a spiral configuration around a permeate column. [0006] Currently, filtration using both adsorbent and membranes is either done in series or is generally inefficient, requiring substantial footprint and volume to achieve substantial reduction in, for example virus load.

[0007] For example, US Publication 2014/0217005 to Hatsumi Takeda, describes such system relating to a water purification cartridge having a container to accommodate an adsorbent and a hollow-fiber membrane for filtering raw water, with an adsorber section in which the adsorbent is positioned and which has a water collector section through which the water filtered by the adsorbent flows; and a hollow-fiber membrane section in which the hollow-fiber membrane is positioned and which is located on the downstream side of the adsorber section and the water collector section. Also described is an air outlet positioned on the upper side of the container and connected to the space in the water collector section. By separating the fiber section downstream from the filter section, the space in the cartridge is not fully utilized, potentially reducing efficiency of both sections. Likewise, it is impossible to replace desired components separately from other components, for example, replacing a single hollow fiber membrane.

[0008] Similarly, WO2014/196567, is directed to a cartridge having hollow fiber membrane bundle, disposed within an adsorbent sleeve monolith and the adsorbent seems to be passive with regard to water flow. The stated purpose for the passive activated carbon adsorben configuration, is to prevent contamination of the purified water in cases where bacterial "gets into the activated carbon for some reason".

[0009] Accordingly, there is a need for compact filtration cartridges capable of achieving substantial reduction in contaminants' load while utilizing space in an efficient and effective manner, as well as address maintenance issues associated with liquid filtering cartridges.

SUMMARY

[0010] In an embodiment, provided herein is a filtration cartridge comprising a cylindrical cartridge housing having a distal end, a proximal end, a longitudinal axis, an internal diameter and an outer diameter, the cartridge housing defining an internal volume; a proximal circular cover disk defining a centrally disposed inlet port extending proximally from the cartridge housing and operably coupled thereto; a distal circular cover disk defining a centrally disposed outlet port extending distally from the cartridge housing; an adsorbent column coaxially disposed between the proximal and distal cover disks, the adsorbent column being in fluid communication with the cartridges inlet port; and a (plurality of) flexible membrane film(s) spirally wound around the adsorbent column, wherein a liquid entering the proximal connector port is channeled to pass via the adsorbent column, through the plurality of membranes to the outlet port.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The features of the filtration membrane cartridge described herein will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the figures, which are exemplary, not limiting, and in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a X-Z cross section elevation view of an embodiment of the membrane filtration cartridge;

[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates a X-Y cross section (A-A, FIG. 1) plan view thereof;

[0014] FIG. 3, illustrates an isometric perspective view of an embodiment of the proximal and distal sections of the adsorbent column;

[0015] FIG. 4A, illustrates an elevation view of an embodiment of the flanged base, a plan view thereof in FIG. 4B and an isometric perspective thereof in FIG. 4C;

[0016] FIG. 5 A, illustrates an embodiment of the flanged connector member with a bottom left perspective view, a front elevation view thereof in FIG. 5B and top right perspective view thereof in FIG. 5C;

[0017] FIG. 6A, illustrates an embodiment of the mid-section of the adsorbent column, with a top/bottom plan view thereof, an elevation view thereof in FIG. 6B and an isometric perspective view thereof in FIG. 6C;

[0018] FIG. 7 A, illustrates an embodiment of the distal baffle plate, with a bottom isometric perspective view thereof, a top isometric perspective view thereof in FIG. 7B, a side elevation view thereof in FIG. 7C and a Y-Z cross section (C-C, FIG. 7B) thereof in FIG. 7D;

[0019] FIG. 8 A illustrates an embodiment of the circular external plate with a bottom isometric perspective view thereof, and an elevation view thereof in FIG. 8B;

[0020] FIG. 9A, illustrates an embodiment of the circular distal cover disk, with a bottom isometric perspective view thereof, an elevation vie thereof in FIG. 9B and X-Z cross section (D- D, FIG. 9B) thereof in FIG. 9C; [0021] FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom isometric perspective view of an embodiment of the stopper;

[0022] FIG. 11 , illustrates a bottom left isometric perspective view of an embodiment of the permeate tube; and

[0023] FIG. 12A, illustrates an embodiment of the membranes spiral winding, with unwound membrane in FIG. 12B, and coupling to permeate tube in FIG. 12C.

[0024] While the disclosure is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be further described in detail hereinbelow. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Provided herein are embodiments of filtration cartridges with spiral wound membrane therein. In another embodiment, provided herein are filtration cartridges having both selectably replaceable membrane element(s) and an selectably replaceable adsorbent element, where liquid is channeled in one embodiment through the adsorbent element and then through the membrane element(s).

[0026] The disclosure relates to an adsorbent media and membrane filtration- combined in one unit. The raw water can first pass the adsorbent media that consists in an embodiment of two separate materials, for example, Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) and Clay, and following filtration through this media the intermediate can pass a membrane filtration stage consisting of an element of spirally wound membrane configuration.

[0027] The cartridge can be implemented, for example in water dispensing apparatus, such as hot/cold water dispenser, refrigerators and the like. Moreover, the cartridge provide redundancy and unique fault tolerance by using, in series, two unit operations that are each capable of providing 3 orders of magnitude reduction in bacteria and virus level in raw feed (and about 6 orders of reduction for both systems together.)

[0028] Accordingly, in an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, cartridge 1000 is disposed within outer housing 1. Arrows marked Feed (F), Intermediate (I), and Effluent (E) indicate the fluid flow path through the apparatus. The process stream, or feed (e.g., raw water), enters and flows through the apparatus' inlet port 4 as shown by arrows F. Feed stream flows through adsorbent column 2,6,2' becoming an intermediate stream upon exit, where it is forced into the (plurality of) membrane(s) 17, being in fluid communication with (plurality of) permeate tube(s) 18, where the liquid is channeled to the outlet port. Note that in an embodiment a single wound membrane can be used, while in other embodiments, a plurality of spirally wound membranes are used.

[0029] The cartridges described herein, is suitable for a broad range of technologies and applications including but not limited to desalination pretreatment, waste water treatment, sterilization of beverages and pharmaceutics, beverages clarification, cell harvesting, water purification, metal recovery, oil-water separation, paints recovery, water softening, dyes retention, concentration of salts, sugars, beverages, milk and the like.

[0030] Accordingly, provided herein is a filtration cartridge comprising a cylindrical cartridge housing having a distal end, a proximal end, a longitudinal axis, an internal diameter and an outer diameter, the cartridge housing defining an internal volume; a proximal circular cover disk defining a centrally disposed an inlet port extending proximally from the cartridge housing and operably coupled thereto; a distal circular cover disk defining a centrally disposed outlet port extending distally from the cartridge housing; an adsorbent column coaxially disposed between the proximal and distal cover disks, the adsorbent column being in fluid communication with the cartridges inlet port; and a (plurality of) flexible membrane film(s) spirally wound around the adsorbent column, wherein a liquid entering the proximal connector port is channeled to pass via the adsorbent column, through the (plurality of) membrane(s) to the outlet port.

[0031] The proximal (in other words, closer to the inlet port) circular cover disk can comprise a circular external plate (could also be not circular, but any other polynomial having 3 or more sides) having an upper surface and a lower surface, defining a central circular aperture and a plurality of cylindrical depressions open to the lower surface (in other words, the depressions are defined within the plate open to the lower side of the plate), sized to

accommodate a stopper and a flanged connector member, the connector member being substantially circular (or again, could also be not circular, but any other polynomial having 3 or more sides corresponding to the external plate). The connector member can have an upper side defining a central inlet port disposed on a circular stage and a plurality of recesses disposed radially (in other words, in a circle around the inlet port opening) on the flange, each sized to accommodate a permeate tube; and a lower surface having walls rise therefrom, configured to frictionally couple (and be removably engaged) to (and in) the internal volume defined by walls of the adsorbent column (making the walls of the adsorbent column an engaging element), wherein the central circular aperture in the circular external plate is sized to frictionally accommodate (yet be selectably removable) circular stage on the upper side of the flanged connector member and wherein each recess is radially aligned with each of the cylindrical depressions.

[0032] The term "coupled", including its various forms such as "operably coupling", "coupling" or "couplable", refers to and comprises any direct or indirect, structural coupling, connection or attachment, or adaptation or capability for such a direct or indirect structural or operational coupling, connection or attachment, including integrally formed components and components which are coupled via or through another component or by the forming process. Indirect coupling may involve coupling through an intermediary member or adhesive, or abutting and otherwise resting against, whether frictionally or by separate means without any physical connection.

[0033] Likewise, the term "engage" and various forms thereof, when used with reference to an engaging element, for example in the engagement of permeate tube 18, refers in an embodiment to the application of any forces that tend to hold permeation tube 18, and distal circular cover plate 9 together against inadvertent or undesired separating forces (e.g., such as may be introduced during use of the cartridge). It is to be understood, however, that engagement does not in all cases require an interlocking connection that is maintained against every conceivable type or magnitude of separating force. Also, the term "engage" when used for example, with reference to engagement of mid-section 6 and proximal and distal section 2'; refer in an embodiment to the application of any forces that tend to hold the sections together against inadvertent or undesired separating forces. Further, the term "engaging element" refers in another embodiment to one or a plurality of coupled components, at least one of which is configured for releasably engaging another element. Thus, this term encompasses both single part engaging elements and multi-part-assemblies, for example the adsorbent column as a whole.

[0034] Moreover, the circular distal cover disk (closer to the outlet port) can be coupled (e.g., glued, screwed, via friction etc.) to the cylindrical housing at the distal end, has: a lower surface with a centrally disposed outlet port having a bore in fluid communication with the cylindrical housing's internal volume; and an upper surface defining a plurality of concavities (or, in other embodiments depressions, indentations, dimples, pits or the like) disposed radially to the central coupling port, each concavity configured to receive and engage at least a portion of a distal end of the permeate tube (see e.g., FIG. 1, element 18).

[0035] The term "fluid communication" or "liquid communication" refers in an embodiment to a route and/or system of routes for the flow of a fluid. The term "fluid communication" may also refer to the traveling and/or transporting of a fluid. The term "fluid communication" may include [but is not limited to] the general ability or capacity for fluid to flow between the parts, sections, or components under consideration.

[0036] The cartridge describe herein can additionally comprise a distal baffle plate. The term "baffle plate" as used herein, refers to an element, which diverts the flow of liquid in the cartridge. Baffles (see e.g. FIG. 7B, element 76), help in an embodiment to prevent the plug rotation flow of liquid inside the vessel, encourage secondary flows and mixing eddies and inhibit or prevent subsequent air entrapment. The baffle plate can be partially circular and have an upper surface defining a plurality of protrusions (or in other words, baffles); and a lower surface with a rim disposed on the periphery of the baffle plate, extending from the lower surface, the baffle plate coupled to the distal cover plate at the lower surface and defining a plurality of apertures aligned with the plurality of concavities in the distal cover plate, each sized to accommodate the permeate tube.

[0037] In addition, for the purposes of the present disclosure, directional or positional terms such as "top", "bottom", "upper," "lower," "side," "front," "frontal," "forward," "rear,"

"rearward," "back," "trailing," "above," "below," "left," "right," "radial ," "vertical," "upward," "downward," "outer," "inner," "exterior," "interior," "intermediate," etc., are merely used for convenience in describing the various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] Furthermore, cartridge describe herein can comprise a flanged base having an upper surface and a lower surface with walls rising from the upper surface, defining a peripheral lip and a central aperture, wherein the lower surface of the flanged base is coupled to the upper side of the baffle plate. As indicated above, coupling can be for example, with an adhesive, fixing means such as screws, dowels, pins, detents and the like, or via an engaging element via frictional coupling. [0039] As illustrated and described, the adsorbent column used in the filtration cartridges described herein, can be an assembly comprising a central section having a proximal end and a distal end, sandwiched between and (e.g., frictionally) engaging a proximal section having a proximal end and a distal end, and a distal section having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein: the proximal end of the proximal section is configured to frictionally couple to the walls rising from the lower surface of the flanged connector member and the distal end of the proximal section is configured to engage the proximal end of the central section; and the distal end of the distal section is configured to frictionally couple to the walls rising from the upper surface of the flanged base and the proximal end of the distal section is configured to engage the distal end of the central section. By having the adsorbent column as an assembly with parts, each of which can be selectably (in other words, without affecting the operability of other components in the assemblies provided) removable, maintenance and adjustments of the amount of adsorbent, its type and configuration can be adjusted. For example, the central section can comprise only granulated activated carbon, while the proximal and/or the distal sections can comprise granulated clay or other adsorbent material, for example silica beads having anti-bacterial and/or anti-viral coating thereon, and/or, in another embodiment, diatomaceous earth. Any permutation of the compositions described herein and their location is thus contemplated. In another embodiment, all sections can have the same composition and depending on the contaminant load of the raw fluid stream, a determination can be made on how many adsorbent sections are filled, and with what composition of adsorbents.

[0040] Each of the permeate tubes described and illustrated herein, (see e.g., FIG. 11), can have an open proximal end and an open distal end with a radially disposed aperture (in other words, a hole in the wall of the tube). The permeate tube can further define an axial slit in the wall of the permeate tube, the slit does not extend more than about 95% of the length of the tube. The radial aperture can be disposed closer to the distal end and is axially aligned with the slit. In other words the slit defines a longitudinal axis that is normal to the apertures axis of rotation. Also, the distal end of the permeate tube can be configured to couple to a corresponding concavity (see hereinabove) in the upper surface of the circular distal cover disk, and wherein the aperture is disposed below the distal baffle plate while the slit is disposed above the distal baffle plate. In other words, the baffle plate creates an effective separation between the aperture and the slit. [0041] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of flexible membrane films are spirally wound around the absorbent column and can be configured also to be partially wrapped around each of the permeate tubes, thereby increasing the contact area between the permeate tube and the membranes. Additionally, a plurality of stoppers, each stopper (e.g., a rubber and/or resin plug) can be operably coupled to each of the proximal ends of the permeate tubes effectively closing the permeate tube's open proximal end. Accordingly, each stopper can be configured or sized and/or shaped to frictionally couple to each of the cylindrical depressions defined in the lower surface of the proximal circular cover disk as described hereinabove.

[0042] In an embodiment, the membranes are constructed in whole or part from polymeric materials or mixtures thereof. While highly polar but nominally uncharged polymers can also be treated successfully using the methods described, the polymer will, for example have a negative charges density under operating conditions, due, for example, to the presence of carboxylic, sulfonic, phosphoric, boronic, or other acidic or charged groups. Polymers that bear negatively- charged groups can be for example; polyacrylic acid, sulfonated polysulfone, carboxylated polysulfone, polyamino acids, sulfonated polyethylene, etc their combinations, copolymers, blends and the like. In addition, polymers that are substantially neutral but are highly polarized and may be treated with the methods described herein, include without limitation;

Polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyimide, polyether imide, polyamide, polyethersulfone, polyether ketone, polyether ether ketone, cellulose polymers, polyvinyl alcohol, polyester, polyether, polyether imide, poly( vinyl acetate), Polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylates,

polymethylacrylates, polyacrylonitnle, polyacrylonitnle, etc. Polymers that will have a positive net charge, may be for example; Zeta Plus (30S series) filters (AMF, Cuno Div., Meriden, Conn.), chitosan, Polyethylenimines, polylysine, polythiophene, and the like.

[0043] In an embodiment, each of the membranes can be comprised of a substantially rectangular film composed of a first quadrilateral sheet coupled to a second quadrilateral sheet, the first quadrilateral sheet being a filtration membrane and the second quadrilateral sheet being a spacer sheet. In an embodiment, the spacer sheet material can be screen woven, continually wrapped to form an external wrapping around the outer filtration membrane sheet material. In another embodiment, rather than having the filtration sheet material made of one type of mesh; one side of the material may be a non-porous sheet material so that the membrane would comprise adjacent, spaced apart sheets, one of a filtration sheet material and the other of a non- porous or different type filtration sheet material, with both ends connected and sealed, such as by adhesive sealing of the edges or by a plug, and then operably coupled to the spacer sheet.

[0044] Detailed embodiments of the cartridge systems and assemblies are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting but rather to provide an understandable description of the invention.

[0045] The terms "first," "second," and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to denote one element from another. The terms "a", "an" and "the" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, and are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The suffix "(s)" as used herein is intended to include both the singular and the plural of the term that it modifies, thereby including one or more of that term (e.g., the membrane(s) includes one or more membrane). Reference throughout the specification to "one embodiment", "another embodiment", "an embodiment", and so forth, means that a particular element (e.g., feature, structure, and/or characteristic) described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment described herein, and may or may not be present in other embodiments. In addition, it is to be understood that the described elements may be combined in any suitable manner in the various embodiments.

[0046] A more complete understanding of the components, and cartridges disclosed herein can be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings. These figures (also referred to herein as "FIG.") are merely schematic representations based on convenience and the ease of demonstrating the present disclosure, and are, therefore, not intended to indicate relative size and dimensions of the devices or components thereof, their relative size relationship and/or to define or limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments. Although specific terms are used in the following description for the sake of clarity, these terms are intended to refer only to the particular structure of the embodiments selected for illustration in the drawings, and are not intended to define or limit the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings and the following description below, it is to be understood that like numeric designations refer to components of like function.

[0047] Likewise, cross sections and various views are referred to on normal orthogonal coordinate system having XYZ axis, such that Y axis refers to front-to-back, X axis refers to side-to-side, and Z axis refers to up-and-down.

[0048] Turning now to FIG.'s 1 and 2, illustrating an embodiment of the filtration cartridge 1000 having cylindrical cartridge housing 1, distal end, proximal end, longitudinal axis x, an internal diameter and an outer diameter, cartridge housing 1 defining an internal cylindrical volume. Also illustrated is proximal circular cover disk 8 defining a centrally disposed inlet port (not shown, see e.g., 45 FIG. 5A) extending proximally from cartridge housing 1 and being operably coupled to proximal circular cover disk 8. Distal circular cover disk 9 is illustrated defining centrally disposed outlet port (not shown, see e.g., 98, FIG 9B), extending distally from cartridge housing 1. FIG. 1, also illustrates adsorbent column 2,6,2' coaxially disposed between the proximal 8 and distal 9 cover disks, adsorbent column 2,6,2' being in fluid communication with the cartridge's inlet port (not shown, see e.g., 45 FIG. 5A). Further, FIG. lillustrates (plurality of) flexible membrane film(s) 17, spirally wound around adsorbent column 2,6,2', wherein liquid feed entering inlet port (not shown, see e.g., 45 FIG. 5A) is channeled to pass via adsorbent column 2,6,2', through (plurality of) membrane(s) 17 to outlet port (not shown, see e.g., 98, FIG 9B).

[0049] Turning now to FIG.s 8 and 5, illustrating an embodiment of the proximal cover disk (i.e., the inlet port side). As illustrated, proximal cover disk can comprise circular external plate 8 having upper surface and a lower surface, defining central circular aperture 83 having internal diameter d8 and plurality of cylindrical depressions 85_n open to the lower surface (see e.g., FIG. 8A), sized to accommodate stopper 10 (not shown see e.g. FIG. 1). Proximal cover disk can also have rim 82 extending from disk plate 81 configured to engage cylindrical cartridge housing 1 , Rim 82, can define radial channel 86 configured to receive O-Ring 13 (not shown, See e.g., FIG. 1) and engage cylindrical housing's 2 proximal end. Disk plate 8 can also have notch 84 cut into disk plate 8. Turning now to FIG. 5, illustrating flanged connector member 4. Flanged connector member 4 can be substantially circular, with an upper side defining central inlet port 45 coaxially disposed on circular stage 46 illustrated with radial channel 47 configured to receive an O-ring (not shown, see e.g., FIG. 1 element 14). FIG.'s 5A, 5C also illustrate plurality of recesses 42j disposed radially on flange 48, each tf^h recess sized to accommodate permeate tube 18 (not shown, see e.g., FIG. 's 1 , 1 1) and a lower surface having walls 41 , rise therefrom. As illustrated walls 4 I , form the general shape of a four-leaf clover with 4 i nodes and bays 49b, walls 41 , configured to frictionally couple to or otherwise engage the complementary internal volume defined by walls of sections 2,2' (see e.g., FIG. 's 1 , 3, 6) of adsorbent column. . Bays e.g., 49¾ partially accommodate permeate tubes 18 such that permeate tubes 18 (not shown, see e.g., FIG.'s 2, 4B), are enclosed in the circle having diameter D created by tie line extending the radial length of two opposing i nodes (see e.g., D₆, FIG. 4B).

[0050] Central circular aperture 83 in circular external plate 8 is sized to frictionally accommodate circular stage 46 on the upper side of flanged connector member 4. As illustrated, each d^lh recess of plurality of recesses 42j is radially aligned with each of n^th cylindrical depressions 85_n. Although the shaped adsorbent column is shown having a cross section with 4 nodes, it is contemplated that the number of nodes can be between 1 (i.e. circular) and 6, depending on the needed flow rate, diameter of the permeate tubes, axial length of the cartridge and other parameters. For example, a cross section having an hour-glass shape can accommodate 2 permeate tubes within the circle thus created (in other words a circle enclosing the periphery of the adsorbent column, would enclose the permeate tubes). Permeate tubes 18 refer in an embodiment to tubes channeling feed liquid that passed through the adsorbent column and then the membrane. Permeate tube(s) 18 being in fluid communication with adsorbent column 2, 6, 2' (distal section of the adsorbent column)

[0051] Turning now to FIG. 's 1 and 9, illustrating circular distal cover disk 9 (closer to the outlet side of cartridge 1000) coupled to cylindrical housing 1 at the distal end. Distal cover disk can have lower surface (see e.g., FIG. 9A) with centrally disposed outlet port 98 (FIG. 9B) having bore 93 (FIG. 9C) in fluid communication with cylindrical housing's 2 internal volume. Also shown is upper surface defining plurality of concavities 95_n disposed radially to central outlet port 98, each n^th concavity configured to receive and engage at least a portion of distal end 1 12 (not shown, see e.g., FIG. 1 1 ) of permeate tube 18. As illustrated, each n^th concavity 95_n can be formed as to provide liquid access to the n^th concavity, leading the effluent liquid to radial aperture 1 13 (not shown, see e.g., FIG. 1 1) of permeate tube 18. In an embodiment, the term "concavity" refers to depressions, indentations, dimples, pits or the like. [0052] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the lower surface of circular cover disk 9, can have rim 92 with defining radial channel 96 (FIG. 9B) configured to receive an O-ring (not shown , see e.g., O ring 13, FIG. 1) to sealingly couple distal circular cover disk 9 to cylindrical housing 1. Lower surface can also have sector defined by tie line 97 (referring to a line connecting any two points on the periphery of a circle) used, for example to provide radial orientation to components coupled to the upper side of distal circular cover disk 9, for example, distal baffle plate 7.

[0053] Turning now to FIG. 7, illustrating distal baffle plate 7. As illustrated, distal baffle plate 7 can have an upper surface defining a plurality of protrusions 76, 74. Distal baffle plate 7 can also have a lower surface with rim 72 disposed on the periphery of the baffle plate, extending from the lower surface. Distal baffle plate can be coupled to distal cover plate 9 at the lower surface. As illustrated, rim 72 can define tie line 77 chamfering a section of otherwise circular plate surface 71. Protrusion ridge 76 and pair of step protrusions 74 are configured to engage the distal end of distal section 2' of the adsorbent column 2,6,2', while leaving volume allowing flow of permeate liquid towards (plurality of) membrane(s) 17. The plurality of apertures 75_n defined in circular stage 78 are configured to be coaxially aligned with plurality of concavities 95_n in distal cover plate 9. As illustrated in FIG.'s 7B, 7C, protrusion ridge 76 extend

perpendicular to tie line 77, thus when rim wall 77 , abuts tie line 97 on distal cover plate 9 the configuration can provide a predetermined radial orientation to all the components in cartridge 1000, in cylindrical cartridge housing 1. As illustrated, distal baffle plate defines a plurality (e.g., 4) apertures 75_n, each 72^th aperture sized to accommodate permeate tube 18 (not shown, see e.g., FIG's 1, 11). The term "accommodate" as used herein means that the apertures, recesses, concavities and the like (e.g., apertures 75_n) are at least as large, in cross-section, as that component of permeate tube 18 intended to pass through that aperture, recess, concavity or cylindrical depression. As illustrated the diameter of each n^th aperture 75n can be different on the lower surface of distal baffle plate 7 (see e.g., FIG. 7A) than the upper surface (FIG. 7B) and further shown in FIG. 7D. As shown in FIG.s 7A and 7D, the lower surface of distal baffle plate 7 defines shallow cylindrical indentation 73.

[0054] Turning now to FIG. 4, illustrating flanged base 4 having an upper surface and a lower surface with walls 32j rising from upper surface 31,, defining a peripheral lip and central aperture 33, wherein the lower surface of flanged base 4 is coupled to the upper side of distal baffle plate 7, for example frictionally coupling to protrusion ridge 76 (see e.g., FIG. 7B). Walls 32/ can rise to height hi, configured to frictionally engage the distal end of distal section 2' (see e.g., shelf 22/ FIG. 3).

[0055] Turning now to FIG. 's 3 and 6, providing an illustration of the adsorbent column. As illustrated in FIG. 6, adsorbent column comprises symmetrical mid-section 6 having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis x (see e.g., FIG. 3). Mid-section 6 is comprised of shaped internal wall 62/, which, extending beyond external wall 61,, forms a male proximal and distal ends. As illustrated, mid- section 6 further defines internal volume 63, configured to receive an adsorbent material, for example, granulated activated carbon (GAC), clay, diatomaceous earth or a combination comprising one or more of the foregoing. Mid-section 6 can be sandwiched between and engaging proximal section 2 (see e.g., FIG. 3) having a proximal end and a distal end, and distal section 2' having a proximal end and a distal end. Turning now to FIG. 3, illustrating proximal and distal section 2, 2'. As illustrated in FIG. 3, symmetrical proximal and distal section 2, 2' is comprised of shaped external wall 21,, which, extending beyond internal wall 22j, form a female proximal and distal ends. In an embodiment, adsorbent column 2,6,2' can be monolithic and is NOT comprised of three separate parts. Likewise, in another embodiment, proximal section 2 and distal section 2' can have the same or different axial length. Askilled person would readily recognize that the male-female configuration can be changed in all components without departing from the scope of the technology disclosed.

[0056] In an embodiment, the proximal female end of proximal section 2 is configured to frictionally couple to walls 41, rising (see e.g., FIG. 5A) from the lower surface of flanged connector member 4 and the female distal end of proximal section 2 is configured to engage the male proximal end of mid-section 6 formed by walls 61, ; and the female distal end of distal section 2' is configured to frictionally couple to walls 32/ rising (forming a male connector, see e.g., FIG. 4 A) from the upper surface of flanged base 3 and the female proximal end of distal section 2' is configured to engage the male distal end of mid-section 6 formed by walls 61,.

[0057] In an embodiment, each of the granulated activated carbon (GAC), clay,

diatomaceous earth or a combination comprising one or more of the foregoing being

incorporated discretely or in combination to one or more of sections 2,6,2'of the adsorbent column. Each adsorbent can be provided alone or in combination within a pouch or net having permeability above the molecular weight cut-off corresponding size. [0058] Turning now to FIG. 11, illustrating an embodiment of permeate tube 18. As illustrated in FIG. 11, each of permeate tubes 18 has open proximal end 11 land open distal end 112 with radially disposed aperture 113, and axial slit 115 defined in wall 114 of each permeate tube 18. Aperture can be disposed closer to distal end 111 and be axially aligned with slit 115. Distal end 112 can be configured to couple to a corresponding n^th concavity 95_n in the upper surface of circular distal cover disk 9, and wherein aperture 113 can be disposed below distal baffle plate 7 while slit 115 can be disposed above distal baffle plate 7. Accordingly, as raw feed liquid enters inlet port 45 (FIG. 5 A) and passes through adsorbent column 2,6,2', (see e.g., FIG. 1) through the space created by distal baffle plate's 7 ridge 76 and pair of step protrusions 74 (see e.g., FIG. 7B), becoming intermediate permeate liquid (I, FIG. 1) and through (plurality of) membrane film(s) 17 (or membrane envelope 171_g see e.g., FIG.'s 2, 12), the filtered effluent is directed or otherwise channeled to slit 115 and through radial aperture 113 below distal baffle plate 7 to outlet port 98.

[0059] Alternatively, by reversing flow, raw feed can be introduced to cartridge 1000 through outlet port 98, where the liquid can forced into radial aperture 113 of permeate tube 18 and exit through slit 115 to be filtered through membrane envelope 17 lq, and accumulate above distal baffle plate 7 and through adsorbent column 2', 6,2 to inlet port 45.

[0060] Turning now to FIG.s 12, 1 and 2, illustrating the spiral wound membrane(s) 17, whereby each of the (plurality of) flexible membrane film(s) 17 (used interchangeably with membrane(s)), can be spirally wound around adsorbent column formed of sections 2, 6, 2' and as illustrated in FIG. 2, can also be partially wrapped around each of permeate tubes 18. Likewise, each of (plurality of) membrane film(s) can be comprised of envelope 17 l_q (see e.g., FIG. 12B, 12C). Envelope 171_g can comprise at least one membrane 172, spacer 173, or a combination thereof. As illustrated in FIG.s 12B, 12C, membrane, or membrane envelope (interchangeably used) 17 can be comprised of substantially rectangular film 11 lq composed of a first quadrilateral sheet coupled to a second quadrilateral sheet sealed with seam 174, the first quadrilateral sheet being filtration membrane 172 and the second quadrilateral sheet being spacer sheet 173.

[0061] Further, filter sheet 172 can have a molecular weight cut off (MWCO) size of about no less than 10 kiloDaltons (kDa), or average pore size having a diameter D_¾i of between about 1.0 nm and about 450 nm. Moreover, membrane envelope 17 l_q can be configured to operate at pressures of between about 0.5 (50 kPa) bar and about 5 bar (500 kPa) at external STP. The term "about" refers in an embodiment to a relative term providing that the ranges or measures and numbers modified by the term can be within ± 10-25% of the stated value.

[0062] As illustrated in FIG. 12C, envelope 171_g comprising filter sheet 172 and spacer sheet 173, can be sealed with seam 174 on three sides, with one facet of quadrilateral envelope (see e.g., FIG. 12B), which can be operably coupled to permeate tube 18, maintaining radial aperture 113 open, and at least partially covering slit 115 defined in wall 114 of permeate tube 18. As illustrated, spacer sheet 173 can extend into slit 115 and operably couple to slit 115, for example, by using an adhesive, fusing and the like.

[0063] Turning now to FIG. 10, illustrating stopper 10. comprising enlarged cylindrical head portion 101 and body portion 102 having closed distal end 103 each body portion operably coupled to each of proximal ends 111 of permeate tubes 18, wherein each enlarged cylindrical head portion 101 of stopper 10 is configured to frictionally couple to each n^th of cylindrical depressions 85_n defined in the lower surface of proximal circular cover disk 8.

[0064] Cartridge 1000 can be configured to provide more than 4.0 log reduction (for example, about 4.1 log reduction) in initial virus load with a membrane surface area of about

0.33 m², with a flow rate ( ^m ) of about 2L/min.

[0065] Accordingly and in an embodiment, provided herein is a filtration cartridge comprising: a cylindrical cartridge housing having a distal end, a proximal end, a longitudinal axis, an internal diameter and an outer diameter, the cartridge housing defining an internal volume; a proximal circular cover disk defining a centrally disposed an inlet port extending proximally from the cartridge housing and operably coupled thereto; a distal circular cover disk defining a centrally disposed outlet port extending distally from the cartridge housing; an adsorbent column coaxially disposed between the proximal and distal cover disks, the adsorbent column being in fluid communication with the cartridges inlet port; and a flexible membrane film spirally wound around the adsorbent column, wherein a liquid entering the proximal connector port is channeled to pass via the adsorbent column, through the plurality of membranes to the outlet port, wherein (i) wherein the proximal circular cover disk comprises: a circular external plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, defining a central circular aperture and a plurality of cylindrical depressions open to the lower surface, sized to

accommodate a stopper; and a flanged connector member, the connector member being substantially circular, having: an upper side defining a central inlet port disposed on a circular stage and a plurality of recesses disposed radially on the flange, each sized to accommodate a permeate tube; and a lower surface having walls rise therefrom, configured to frictionally couple to the internal volume defined by walls of the adsorbent column, wherein the central circular aperture in the circular external plate is sized to frictionally accommodate circular stage on the upper side of the flanged connector member and wherein each recess is radially aligned with each of the cylindrical depressions, (ii) the circular distal cover disk is coupled to the cylindrical housing at the distal end, has: a lower surface with a centrally disposed outlet port having a bore in fluid communication with the cylindrical housing's internal volume; and an upper surface defining a plurality of concavities disposed radially to the central coupling port, each concavity configured to receive and engage at least a portion of a distal end of the permeate tube, wherein the cartridge (iii) further comprising a distal baffle plate, the plate being partially circular and having: an upper surface defining a plurality of protrusions; and a lower surface with a rim disposed on the periphery of the baffle plate, extending from the lower surface, the baffle plate coupled to the distal cover plate at the lower surface and defining a plurality of apertures aligned with the plurality of concavities in the distal cover plate, each sized to accommodate the permeate tube, as well as (iv) a flanged base having an upper surface and a lower surface with walls rising from the upper surface, defining a peripheral lip and a central aperture, wherein the lower surface of the flanged base is coupled to the upper side of the baffle plate, wherein (v) the adsorbent column comprises a central section having a proximal end and a distal end, sandwiched between and engaging a proximal section having a proximal end and a distal end, and a distal section having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein: the proximal end of the proximal section is configured to frictionally couple to the walls rising from the lower surface of the flanged connector member and the distal end of the proximal section is configured to engage the proximal end of the central section; and the distal end of the distal section is configured to frictionally couple to the walls rising from the upper surface of the flanged base and the proximal end of the distal section is configured to engage the distal end of the central section, (vi) the adsorbent comprises granulated activated carbon (GAC), clay, diatomaceous earth or a combination comprising one or more of the foregoing, each of the granulated activated carbon (GAC), clay, diatomaceous earth or a combination comprising one or more of the foregoing being incorporated discretely or in combination to one or more of the sections of the adsorbent column, wherein (vii) each of the permeate tubes has an open proximal end and an open distal end with a radially disposed aperture, and an axial slit defined in the wall of the permeate tube, wherein the aperture is disposed closer to the distal end and is axially aligned with the slit, the distal end is configured to couple to a corresponding concavity in the upper surface of the circular distal cover disk, and wherein the aperture is disposed below the distal baffle plate while the slit is disposed above the distal baffle plate, wherein (viii) each of the plurality of flexible membrane films spirally wound around the absorbent column is partially wrapped around each of the permeate tubes, as well as (ix) a plurality of stoppers, each operably coupled to each of the proximal ends of the permeate tubes, wherein each stopper is configured to fnctionally couple to each of the cylindrical depressions defined in the lower surface of the proximal circular cover disk (or disc), wherein (x) the plurality of membranes comprise poly(sulfone) polymer, (xi) the poly(sulfone) membrane is a carboxylated poly(sulfone), wherein the cartridge comprises between 2 and 6 permeate tubes, wherein (xii) each of the membranes is comprised of a substantially rectangular film composed of a first quadrilateral sheet coupled to a second quadrilateral sheet, the first quadrilateral sheet being a filtration membrane and the second quadrilateral sheet being a spacer sheet, (xiii) wherein the filter sheet has a molecular weight cut off size of about 50 kDa, (xiv) configured to provide more than 4.0 log reduction in virus load with a membrane surface area of about 0.33 m², with a flow rate ( ^m ) of about 2L/min, wherein (xv) the granulated activated carbon (GAC), clay, diatomaceous earth or a combination comprising one or more of the foregoing are agglomerated to an average particle size having a D₃,2 that is larger than the membranes' pore size corresponding to the molecular weight cut-off size, (xvi) the membranes' pore size corresponding to the molecular weight cut-off size has a D2, 1 of between about 0.1 nm and about 2.0 nm, wherein (xvii) the proximal section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth; the central section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth; and the distal section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth, wherein the proximal section of the adsorbent column and the distal section of the adsorbent column comprise an adsorbent that is different than the adsorbent of the central section of the adsorbent column, or wherein: the proximal section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth; the central section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth; and the distal section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth, wherein the proximal section of the adsorbent column and the distal section of the adsorbent column comprise an adsorbent that is the same as the adsorbent of the central section of the adsorbent column.

[0066] While in the foregoing specification the filtration membrane cartridge described herein have been described in relation to certain embodiments, and many details are set forth for purpose of illustration, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the disclosure of the membrane filtration cartridges described herein are susceptible to additional embodiments and that certain of the details described in this specification and as are more fully delineated in the following claims can be varied considerably without departing from the basic principles of this invention.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A filtration cartridge comprising: a. a cylindrical cartridge housing having a distal end, a proximal end, a longitudinal axis, an internal diameter and an outer diameter, the cartridge housing defining an internal volume; b. a proximal circular cover disk defining a centrally disposed an inlet port extending proximally from the cartridge housing and operably coupled thereto; c. a distal circular cover disk defining a centrally disposed outlet port extending distally from the cartridge housing; d. an adsorbent column coaxially disposed between the proximal and distal cover disks, the adsorbent column being in fluid communication with the cartridges inlet port; and e. a flexible membrane film spirally wound around the adsorbent column, wherein a liquid entering the proximal connector port is channeled to pass via the adsorbent column, through the plurality of membranes to the outlet port.

2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the proximal circular cover disk comprises: a. a circular external plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, defining a central circular aperture and a plurality of cylindrical depressions open to the lower surface, sized to accommodate a stopper; and b. a flanged connector member, the connector member being substantially circular, having: i. an upper side defining a central inlet port disposed on a circular stage and a plurality of recesses disposed radially on the flange, each sized to accommodate a permeate tube; and ii. a lower surface having walls rise therefrom, configured to frictionally couple to the internal volume defined by walls of the adsorbent column, wherein the central circular aperture in the circular external plate is sized to frictionally accommodate circular stage on the upper side of the flanged connector member and wherein each recess is radially aligned with each of the cylindrical depressions.

3. The cartridge of claim 2, wherein the circular distal cover disk is coupled to the cylindrical housing at the distal end, has: a. a lower surface with a centrally disposed outlet port having a bore in fluid communication with the cylindrical housing's internal volume; and b. an upper surface defining a plurality of concavities disposed radially to the central coupling port, each concavity configured to receive and engage at least a portion of a distal end of the permeate tube.

4. The cartridge of claim 3, further comprising a distal baffle plate, the plate being partially circular and having: a. an upper surface defining a plurality of protrusions; and b. a lower surface with a rim disposed on the periphery of the baffle plate, extending from the lower surface, the baffle plate coupled to the distal cover plate at the lower surface and defining a plurality of apertures aligned with the plurality of concavities in the distal cover plate, each sized to accommodate the permeate tube.

5. The cartridge of claim 4, further comprising a flanged base having an upper surface and a lower surface with walls rising from the upper surface, defining a peripheral lip and a central aperture, wherein the lower surface of the flanged base is coupled to the upper side of the baffle plate.

6. The cartridge of any one of claims 2, wherein the adsorbent column comprises a central section having a proximal end and a distal end, sandwiched between and engaging a proximal section having a proximal end and a distal end, and a distal section having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein: the proximal end of the proximal section is configured to frictionally couple to the walls rising from the lower surface of the flanged connector member and the distal end of the proximal section is configured to engage the proximal end of the central section; and the distal end of the distal section is configured to frictionally couple to the walls rising from the upper surface of the flanged base and the proximal end of the distal section is configured to engage the distal end of the central section.

7. The cartridge of claim 6, wherein the adsorbent comprises granulated activated carbon (GAC), clay, diatomaceous earth or a combination comprising one or more of the foregoing, each of the granulated activated carbon (GAC), clay, diatomaceous earth or a combination comprising one or more of the foregoing being incorporated discretely or in combination to one or more of the sections of the adsorbent column.

8. The cartridge of claim 7, wherein each of the permeate tubes has an open proximal end and an open distal end with a radially disposed aperture, and an axial slit defined in the wall of the permeate tube, wherein the aperture is disposed closer to the distal end and is axially aligned with the slit, the distal end is configured to couple to a corresponding concavity in the upper surface of the circular distal cover disk, and wherein the aperture is disposed below the distal baffle plate while the slit is disposed above the distal baffle plate.

9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of flexible membrane films spirally wound around the absorbent column is partially wrapped around each of the permeate tubes.

10. The cartridge of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of stoppers, each operably coupled to each of the proximal ends of the permeate tubes, wherein each stopper is configured to frictionally couple to each of the cylindrical depressions defined in the lower surface of the proximal circular cover disk.

11. The cartridge of any one of claims 1 , wherein the plurality of membranes comprise poly(sulfone) polymer.

12. The cartridge of claim 11, wherein the poly(sulfone) membrane is a carboxylated poly(sulfone).

13. The cartridge of any one of claims 8, comprising between 2 and 6 permeate tubes.

14. The cartridge of any one of claims 9, wherein each of the membranes is comprised of a substantially rectangular film composed of a first quadrilateral sheet coupled to a second quadrilateral sheet, the first quadrilateral sheet being a filtration membrane and the second quadrilateral sheet being a spacer sheet.

15. The cartridge of claim 15, wherein the filter sheet has a molecular weight cut off size of about 50 kDa.

16. The cartridge of claim 16, configured to provide more than 4.0 log reduction in virus load with a membrane surface area of about 0.33 m², with a flow rate ( ^m ) of about 2L/min..

17. The cartridge of claim 7, wherein the granulated activated carbon (GAC), clay, diatomaceous earth or a combination comprising one or more of the foregoing are agglomerated to an average particle size having a D_{3 2} that is larger than the membranes' pore size

corresponding to the molecular weight cut-off size.

18. The cartridge of claim 17, wherein the membranes' pore size corresponding to the molecular weight cut-off size has a D2,l of between about 0.1 nm and about 2.0 nm.

19. The cartridge of claim 7, wherein: a. the proximal section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth; b. the central section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth; and c. the distal section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth, wherein the proximal section of the adsorbent column and the distal section of the adsorbent column comprise an adsorbent that is different than the adsorbent of the central section of the adsorbent column.

20. The cartridge of claim 7, wherein: a. the proximal section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth; b. the central section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth; and c. the distal section of the adsorbent column comprises granulated activated carbon, and/or clay, and/or diatomaceous earth, wherein the proximal section of the adsorbent column and the distal section of the adsorbent column comprise an adsorbent that is the same as the adsorbent of the central section of the adsorbent column