Common Foulants and their Associated Symptoms

Membrane Cleaning Chemicals Product Support

Foulant	Symptoms	Solution
Biological Growth	Element may have strong odor, possible mold growth on scroll end. Element will likely exhibit low permeate flow, but salt rejection will usually be as good if not better than original test.	AM-22 or AM-23*
Carbonate Scale	Usually on tap water or brackish water elements only. The element may be noticeably heavier than normal. Element will exhibit low permeate flow and poor salt rejection.	AM-11
Iron Fouling	Rust coloring seen on end of scroll. Possibly some large rust flakes from iron plumbing. Element will exhibit low permeate flow and poor salt rejection. Rust colored reject water may be seen on start of baseline test.	AM-11
Silica Scale (Precipitated)	Same characteristics as carbonate Scale	AM-99
Silt or Carbon Fines	Brown or black material on scroll end. Low flow, good early stages. High flow and very poor rejection in later stages due to the abrasive effects of the material on the membrane.	AM-55

* Items with an asterisk are classified as hazardous materials and are not available for shipment by UPS or air. Available for common carrier or ocean shipment only.

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