chemical

Alkaline cleaner for industrial membrane filters

September 8, 2025
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introduction

Industrial membrane filters play a key role in water and wastewater treatment systems. Over time, these filters lose      their effectiveness     due to the accumulation of contaminants, organic matter, minerals, and biological deposits.   Alkaline cleaning agents  are used to restore membranes to optimal performance. These cleaning agents dissolve contaminants, extend membrane life, and increase system efficiency.

In this article we will learn more about      the components of alkaline cleaners for industrial membrane filters, their mode of action, advantages and application      .

1. What is an alkaline membrane cleaner?

Alkaline cleaners are high pH      (10 to 12) solutions      that remove organic contaminants, grease, proteins, and biofilms from membrane surfaces. These cleaners typically contain ingredients such as:

  • Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)

  • Edetate disodium     (EDTA)

  • Anionic and non-ionic surfactants

  • Chelation factors

1.1 Difference between alkaline and acidic cleaning agents

  • Alkaline cleaner:      Suitable for removing organic contaminants, grease and biofilm.

  • Acid cleaner:      Mainly used to remove mineral deposits    such as    calcium carbonate, barium sulfate, and iron.

2. Use of alkaline cleaning agents in membrane filters

Alkaline cleaning agents are used in many industries, including:
✅ Water treatment (reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration)
✅ Food and dairy  industry Pharmaceutical industry
✅   Oil refineries
✅ and petrochemical industry

2.1. Signs of the need for alkaline rinsing

  • Reduce the flow rate at the membrane outlet

  • Increase the pressure   in the system

  • Poor quality of clean water (high dissolved solids content)

  • Presence of a biofilm or sludge layer on the membrane surface

3. Advantages of using alkaline membrane cleaners

🔹 Effective removal of organic contaminants and biofilms.
🔹 Restoration of the original membrane flow.
🔹 Increased membrane filter lifespan.
🔹 Reduced membrane replacement costs.
🔹 Cleaning without damaging the membrane structure.

4. How to use the alkaline membrane cleaner

4.1. Steps of membrane cleaning with alkaline cleaner

  1. System configuration:

    • Turn off the system and relieve the pressure.

    • Remove the membranes from the chamber (if necessary).

  2. Preparation of the cleaning solution:

    • Typical concentration:      1–2 vol%      (according to manufacturer’s instructions).

    • Ideal temperature:      30–40 °C      (   for increased   efficiency).

  3. Membrane flushing:

    • Pass the solution through the membrane at a low flow rate (back and forth).

    • Exposure time:      30 minutes to 2 hours      (depending on the degree of soiling).

  4. Final rinsing:

  5. Efficiency class:

    • After reinstallation, check the functionality of the membrane.

4.2 Important information on membrane flushing

⚠ Avoid mixing alkaline and acidic cleaning agents.
⚠ Do not use low-quality water for washing.
⚠ Pay attention to the pH value of the washing solution (pH > 10).
⚠ Repeat the washing process if the item is heavily soiled.

5. Comparison of the most common alkaline cleaners on the market

brand Main ingredients Main application
Flucon 260 NaOH, surfactant Removal of organic matter and biofilms
Avista pH+ EDTA, chelating agent Organic sediments and heavy metals
Genesis LF Sodium edetate, surfactant Food and pharmaceutical industries

6. Conclusion

The use      of alkaline cleaning agents in industrial membrane filters   is an effective solution for maintaining the performance of water treatment systems. Selecting    the right   cleaning agent and adhering to washing guidelines prevents membrane clogging and reduces maintenance costs.

Final advice:

  •  Clean regularly  (every 3–6 months).

  •  Use     commercially available cleaning products.

  • Continuously monitor system parameters (flow, pressure, dissolved solids).

If you need more information on choosing the right cleaning product, our experts will be happy to help you!😊

Resources:

  • ASTM E2694 (Standard Method for Membrane Extraction)

  • NALCO Technical Recommendations for Membrane Cleaning

  • Dow Water Solutions (FilmTec™ Membrane Cleaning Guide)