Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGBHollow fiber membranes offer the advantage of a large specific separation area. Spinnerets are available to manufacture fibers with outer diameters in the range of 0.5 to 4 mm and wall thicknesses from 50 to 500 μm. Such fibers can be made from a small lab scale up to a pilot scale where the fiber is continuously taken-up by a coiler. We have a huge experience with different polymers, like e.g. polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyacrylnitril, polyvinylidenfluoride, polylactide and even self-made polymers.
Special knowledge exists for the processing of dispersions to come to mixed-matrix membranes. Both polymer particles, ceramic and even metallic powders can be used. These particles are homogeneously distributed into the polymer matrix during phase inversion process. Thereby special functionalities can be introduced into such mixed-matrix membranes. In addition, full ceramic and metal membranes could be obtained after sintering.