Low-Biofouling Ultrafiltration Membranes for Enhanced Wastewater Reuse Efficiency

Lower-biofouling ultrafiltration membrane module with pore size of 0.005 micrometers

Toray Industries, Inc. has announced the upcoming launch of its F-HFUG Series ultrafiltration (UF) membrane module, scheduled for May this year, targeting wastewater reuse applications. The company has completed both mass production development and product reliability assessments for this new system, which is designed to enhance the biofouling resistance of downstream reverse osmosis (RO) membranes and ensure stable long-term operation. The module is built upon a high-rejection UF membrane technology introduced by Toray in February 2025.
With increasing global water demand, many countries are enforcing stricter wastewater regulations, particularly in regions facing water scarcity where reuse is becoming essential for supply security. A major challenge in wastewater treatment is the presence of biopolymers, which are primary contributors to membrane biofouling and operational inefficiencies.
Toray’s proprietary micropore control technology enables a nominal pore size of approximately 0.005 micrometers, among the smallest reported in the industry as of April this year. This advancement significantly reduces the passage of biopolymers through the membrane, lowering their permeation to about one-third compared to conventional UF membranes. Pilot-scale studies conducted at wastewater treatment facilities demonstrated that the new UF module effectively suppresses biofouling in downstream RO systems while maintaining consistent permeate flux. Consequently, the decline in RO water production caused by biopolymers is reduced to roughly one-third of that observed with standard membranes. These improvements are expected to decrease the frequency of chemical cleaning, minimize operational challenges, and lower overall costs associated with wastewater reuse and water production.
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