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A Comprehensive Review of Permeate Gap Membrane Distillation: Modelling, Experiments, Applications

Author

Listed:
  • Eliza Rupakheti

    (Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Mechatronic Engineering, RMIT University, P.O. Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia)

  • Ravi Koirala

    (Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Mechatronic Engineering, RMIT University, P.O. Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia)

  • Sara Vahaji

    (Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Mechatronic Engineering, RMIT University, P.O. Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia)

  • Shruti Nirantar

    (Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Mechatronic Engineering, RMIT University, P.O. Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia)

  • Abhijit Date

    (Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Mechatronic Engineering, RMIT University, P.O. Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia)

Abstract

Permeate Gap Membrane Distillation (PGMD) is an emerging desalination technology that offers a promising alternative for freshwater production, particularly in energy-efficient and sustainable applications. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of PGMD, covering its fundamental principles, heat and mass transfer mechanisms, and key challenges such as temperature and concentration polarization. Various optimisation strategies, including Response Surface Morphology (RSM), Differential Evolution techniques, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling, are explored to enhance PGMD performance. The study further discusses the latest advancements in system design, highlighting optimal configurations and the integration of PGMD with renewable energy sources. Factors influencing PGMD performance, such as operational parameters (flow rates, temperature, and feed concentration) and physical parameters (gap width, membrane properties, and cooling plate conductivity), are systematically analysed. Additionally, the techno-economic feasibility of PGMD for large-scale freshwater production is evaluated, with a focus on cost reduction strategies, energy efficiency, and hybrid system innovations. Finally, this review outlines the current limitations and future research directions for PGMD, emphasising novel system modifications, improved heat recovery techniques, and potential industrial applications. By consolidating recent advancements and identifying key challenges, this paper aims to guide future research and facilitate the broader adoption of PGMD in sustainable desalination and water purification processes.

Suggested Citation

  • Eliza Rupakheti & Ravi Koirala & Sara Vahaji & Shruti Nirantar & Abhijit Date, 2025. "A Comprehensive Review of Permeate Gap Membrane Distillation: Modelling, Experiments, Applications," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(14), pages 1-43, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:14:p:6294-:d:1698298
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Zaragoza, G. & Ruiz-Aguirre, A. & Guillén-Burrieza, E., 2014. "Efficiency in the use of solar thermal energy of small membrane desalination systems for decentralized water production," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 130(C), pages 491-499.
    4. Rio Carrillo, Anna Mercè & Frei, Christoph, 2009. "Water: A key resource in energy production," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 37(11), pages 4303-4312, November.
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