SuperPhobic radial-flow membrane contactor

The 2 × 6 SuperPhobic radial-flow membrane contactor is an all-polyolefin degassing device that is resistant to many aggressive ink and coating solutions and various solvents. It is small and compact and provides inline degassing and debubbling of low-surface-tension solutions. The contactor uses a radial flow path through the contactor to maximize the surface area and optimize degassing efficiency. Hollow-fiber membrane is knit into a fabric array and wound around a central distribution tube. Liquid flows through the distribution tube, which is parallel to the hollow-fiber membrane. The liquid is forced radially over the membrane and exits the contactor through a side port in the housing. With 5.4 ft2 of membrane area, the contactor and one device can process up to 1 L/min of liquid. Larger contactors are also available for degassing higher volumes.