Water and heat recovery using membrane contactor technology
Membrane Contactor (MC) technology for recovering water and latent heat from high-temperature industrial vapor streams to improve energy efficiency and sustainability. It can capture up to 90% of water vapor and convert latent heat into reusable sensible heat, supporting integration into high-temperature process applications.
Overview
Membrane Contactor (MC) technology provides a solution for water and heat recovery in industrial processes. It targets inefficiencies in traditional systems by recovering up to 90% of water vapor and converting latent heat into reusable sensible heat. This approach is beneficial for industries with high-temperature processes, where reducing energy consumption and improving sustainability are priorities.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Water Recovery: Uses a hygroscopic salt solution to achieve up to 90% efficiency in capturing water vapor.
- Energy Efficiency: Converts latent heat into sensible heat, reducing net energy consumption.
- Temperature Adaptability: Operates effectively under 100°C, exceeding the performance range of conventional systems.
- Modular and Scalable: Built for integration into existing industrial processes and adaptable to different operating scales.
Technology readiness level
The Membrane Contactor technology is currently at TRL 3, indicating it is in the experimental proof-of-concept stage. Future validation is planned in phases, including design optimization, lab-scale testing, pilot demonstration, and comprehensive assessments.
About Wageningen University and Research
Wageningen University & Research is a life sciences–focused public university combined with mission-driven research institutes, integrating fundamental, applied, and field-based R&D at scale. On Wageningen Campus, companies co-locate with WUR teams and use shared pilot plants, advanced analytical labs, and controlled‑environment facilities for rapid prototyping. Being in the Food Valley cluster provides tight links to global corporates, SMEs, and startups through living labs and a strong regional talent pipeline. Research is backed by competitive funding from the Dutch Research Council, European Union programs, and national ministries, alongside significant contract research for industry. A dedicated technology transfer office and campus incubators streamline IP, licensing, and spin‑out formation for corporate partners and entrepreneurs.
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