Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

What is the term for the rate of mass flow permeate passing through a membrane?

1. Retention

2. Flux

3. Permeability

4. Diffusion

The correct answer is: Flux

The term that refers to the rate of mass flow of permeate passing through a membrane is known as flux. In the context of membrane processes, flux quantifies how much permeate is produced per unit area of membrane per unit time, commonly expressed as liters per square meter per hour (L/m²·h). Understanding flux is crucial for assessing the efficiency and performance of filtration processes, such as reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration. High flux values typically indicate effective separation performance, reflecting a well-functioning membrane that allows for a substantial volume of water or solution to pass while retaining larger particles or solutes. Therefore, proficiency in calculating and interpreting flux values is essential for wastewater operators to optimize treatment processes and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.