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In modern water treatment systems, ultrafiltration technology is one of the most reliable methods for producing clean water and ultrapure water. However, over time, the performance of the ultrafiltration system can decrease due to a phenomenon known as membrane fouling. This fouling not only reduces filtration efficiency, but also increases operational costs and the risk of downtime.

Causes of Membrane Fouling

Membrane fouling is a condition in which the membrane pores in an ultrafiltration system are blocked or closed by various types of contaminants from the raw water. The main causes of fouling include:

1. Suspended solid particles (TSS)

Fine particles such as soil, mud, and dust can stick to and clog the membrane surface, especially if pre-treatment is not carried out properly.

2. Organic materials

Compounds such as humic acid, fulvic acid, and microorganisms (bio-organic) can cause organic fouling and form a biofilm layer.

3. Mineral scaling

Water with high calcium, magnesium, or iron content can cause scale on the membrane surface.

4. Microorganisms and biofilm growth

If the system is not equipped with good disinfection, microbial and biofilm growth can significantly reduce membrane performance.

5. Oil and grease (FOG)

Wastewater from food, chemical, or textile industries often contains oil and grease that cause hydrophobic fouling.

6. Errors in design or operation

Such as inappropriate operating pressure, extreme water pH, or unscheduled membrane washing.

Read Also: Resin Fouling: Causes, Impacts, and How to Prevent It in Ion Exchange Systems

Types of Membrane Fouling

Membrane fouling can be classified into five main categories based on the type of contaminant that causes membrane blockage or damage. Understanding each type of fouling is important because each type requires a different handling and cleaning approach.

1. Particulate/Colloidal Fouling

This type of fouling occurs due to the accumulation of solid and colloidal particles such as fine mud, clay, colloidal silica, or dust carried from raw water, especially surface water such as rivers and lakes. If the system is not equipped with adequate pre-treatment (eg clarifier or multimedia filter), these particles will clog the membrane pores and form a dense layer on its surface. As a result, the water flow (flux) decreases drastically and the differential pressure increases.

2. Organic Fouling

Organic fouling is caused by dissolved organic compounds such as humic acid, fulvic acid, proteins, fats, and surfactants. These compounds are often found in surface water or industrial waste that is rich in organic content. Organic fouling is sticky and can accelerate biofilm growth if not cleaned regularly.

3. Inorganic Fouling (Scaling)

This type of fouling occurs when inorganic salts such as calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, iron, and silica precipitate on the membrane surface. Scaling is very common in water systems with high hardness or groundwater. If left untreated, this scale will reduce the active area of ​​the membrane and permanently damage its structure.

4. Biological Fouling (Biofouling)

Biofouling occurs due to the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi on the membrane surface. These organisms form a sticky biofilm that is difficult to clean by physical washing alone. In addition to reducing filtration performance, biofilms can also cause microbiological corrosion and shorten the life of the membrane.

5. Chemical Fouling

Chemical fouling occurs due to chemical reactions between chemicals in water (such as metal-based coagulants, oxidizing agents, or non-neutral cleaners) and the membrane surface. This reaction can cause changes in membrane properties (such as hydrophobicity) or even permanent degradation.

Read Also: Scaling on RO Membranes: Causes and Prevention Methods

The Impact of Membrane Fouling on Ultrafiltration Efficiency

Fouling that is not handled properly can cause a drastic decrease in system performance. Some of the main impacts of membrane fouling on the efficiency of an ultrafiltration system include:

• Decreased flux or water flow rate through the membrane
• Increased differential pressure (pressure drop), which makes the pump work harder
• Increased need for membrane cleaning (CIP) which shortens the life of the membrane
• Decreased quality of the filtered water
• Higher production downtime and risks to operational continuity

All of this leads to increased operational costs and the need for more frequent membrane replacement.

How to Overcome and Prevent Membrane Fouling

Managing the risk of membrane fouling is not only about cleaning when the problem arises, but also about building a water treatment system that is properly designed from the start. For this, a comprehensive approach from pre-treatment to monitoring system performance is key.

Here are the services and solutions we provide:

1. Effective Planning and Pre-treatment

We help design an optimal pre-treatment system, including the use of clarifiers, filter media (silica sand, anthracite, activated carbon), and dosing chemicals to remove TSS, organic matter, and microorganisms from the start.

2. Provision of Special Chemicals

Lautan Air Indonesia provides a variety of antiscalant, biocide, cleaning chemicals, and pH adjusters specifically designed to prevent fouling and scaling on membranes.

3. Cleaning-in-Place (CIP) Services

We offer periodic membrane cleaning services using the CIP method, with the right chemicals and procedures for each type of fouling.

4. Monitoring and Control System

Our solutions include instrumentation and IoT-based controllers to monitor pressure, flux, and membrane performance in real-time, allowing for early preventive action.

5. Training & Technical Support

Our team is ready to provide operator training and on-site technical support to optimize the operation of your ultrafiltration system.

6. System Audit & Troubleshooting

We also provide system performance audit services, including fouling analysis, water lab testing, and recommendations for technical and chemical improvement steps.

Conclusion

Membrane fouling is a serious challenge in ultrafiltration systems, but it can be controlled with the right approach from the pre-treatment stage to routine maintenance. Understanding the causes, types of fouling, and their impact on system efficiency is the first step in maintaining operational continuity and the quality of the filtered water.

Lautan Air Indonesia is here as your trusted partner with complete solutions, from chemical treatment, engineering systems, to maintenance services, to ensure your ultrafiltration system runs optimally and is free from fouling interference.

Contact Lautan Air Indonesia team today for the best technical consultation and solution in dealing with membrane fouling problems in your ultrafiltration system.

In water treatment systems, especially in cooling systems, scale formation due to mineral deposits such as calcium carbonate and magnesium is a common challenge that can reduce heat transfer efficiency, increase energy consumption, accelerate equipment failure, and increase operating costs. To overcome this problem, scale inhibitors are essential; these are special chemicals designed to prevent scale formation on the surfaces of pipes and heat exchange equipment.

What is a Scale Inhibitor?

Scale Inhibitor is a chemical compound used in water treatment systems to prevent the formation of mineral scale on metal surfaces or other materials in the water circulation system. This material works by disrupting the crystallization process of salts that tend to form hard deposits (scale). By inhibiting or delaying the crystal formation process, Scale Inhibitors keep the system clean, efficient, and free from potential damage.

The use of scale inhibitors is very common in systems such as cooling towers, heat exchangers, boilers, and reverse osmosis systems.

Types of scale that can be prevented by scale inhibitors include:

• Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃)
• Calcium sulfate (CaSO₄)
• Silica and silicates
• Strontium sulfate
• Barium sulfate
• Magnesium hydroxide

The presence of scale inhibitors allows the system to operate in higher concentration cycles, without the risk of excessive scaling, thus contributing to water and energy efficiency.

Read Also: Antiscalant: Anti-Scaling Solution for Reverse Osmosis

Types of Scale Inhibitors

Scale inhibitors have various formulations and types, adjusted to the characteristics of the water, operating temperature, and type of system. Here are some types of scale inhibitors that are commonly used in water treatment:

1. Phosphonates

Phosphonates are one of the most popular types of scale inhibitors. This compound has a phosphonate group that is very effective in binding calcium and magnesium ions, and is able to work in a wide range of pH and temperature. Phosphonates also have a dispersant effect that helps prevent small particles from forming scale.

2. Organic Polymers

Organic polymers are usually used as scale inhibitors and dispersants. They work by disrupting the crystal growth process and also keeping particles suspended in water so they don’t settle. Its advantage is its high ability in water conditions with high levels of heavy metals.

3. Phosphates and Polyphosphates

This type has long been used as a scale control agent, although it is currently being replaced by phosphonates and polymers that are more stable and effective. Phosphates work by forming complex compounds with metal ions that cause scale.

4. Organic Acid-Based Scale Inhibitors

Used in special applications, especially when an environmentally friendly scale inhibitor is needed. Some citric acid or gluconic acid-based products are effective in preventing light scaling, and are often used as a complement.

The selection of the right type of scale inhibitor is highly dependent on water analysis (including parameters such as hardness, alkalinity, pH, temperature, and TDS) and system design. Therefore, the use of scale inhibitors cannot be done carelessly without a deep understanding of the system.

Read Also: Scaling and Corrosion in Boilers: A Hidden Threat to Face

How Scale Inhibitors Work

In general, scale inhibitors work through the following mechanisms:

1. Threshold Inhibition

Scale inhibitors inhibit precipitation even at very low concentrations, far below stoichiometric concentrations. Inhibitor molecules bind mineral ions in solution and prevent them from forming crystal nuclei.

2. Crystal Distortion

At the crystal formation stage, scale inhibitors bind to the crystal surface, disrupting the growth of regular structures. As a result, the crystals formed become unstable and easily dispersed in water, so they do not stick to the surface of the system.

3. Dispersing Action

Certain scale inhibitors are able to prevent sedimentation by keeping small particles suspended in the water, so that they can be carried away by the flow and not settle in the system.

With these three mechanisms, scale inhibitors keep the system clean from scale, reduce maintenance needs, and extend the life of the equipment.

Scale-Free Systems, Starting with the Right Solution

As a company with more than four decades of experience in the water treatment industry, Lautan Air Indonesia understands that every system has unique challenges in scale control. Therefore, we not only provide high-quality scale inhibitor products, but also comprehensive services that include:

• Analysis of water characteristics through complete laboratory tests to determine the best formulation.
• Selection of the type and dosage of scale inhibitor that best suits your system needs.
• Technical assistance and regular monitoring to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of chemical use.
• Operation & Maintenance (O&M) services, including system cleaning and preventive maintenance.
• Integration with digital control systems and IOT, to monitor system performance in real-time and optimize chemical use.

The combination of quality chemical products with integrated technical services makes Lautan Air Indonesia a trusted partner in keeping your water treatment system reliable and efficient. Contact us today for consultation and water treatment solutions that suit your operational needs.

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are the main solution for clean water treatment in various industries, but are susceptible to scaling or crust on the membrane, which reduces performance and increases costs. The use of antiscalant is an important step to prevent crust, extend membrane life, and maintain filtration efficiency.

What is Antiscalant?

Antiscalant is a chemical added to raw water before entering the RO unit to prevent the deposition of minerals such as calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, strontium sulfate, and silica on the membrane surface. Without antiscalant, these minerals easily form solid deposits (scale) that clog membrane pores, increase working pressure, and reduce recovery rates.

In RO systems, the use of the right antiscalant is crucial. Raw water with high hardness and TDS content is at high risk of forming crust, and if not handled proactively, will cause decreased productivity to permanent damage to the membrane.

Types of Antiscalants and Their Applications

There are several types of antiscalants that are specially formulated for RO systems. The selection of the type of antiscalant must be adjusted to the analysis of the water composition and the design of the system used. Here are some of the main types:

1. Phosphonate-Based Antiscalant

This type is very effective in preventing scale formation from calcium carbonate and calcium sulfate. Phosphonate works by interfering with crystal growth and retaining mineral ions in solution.

Applications:

• Raw water with high hardness
• RO systems with high recovery (>75%)
• Water with significant calcium and alkalinity concentrations

2. Polycarboxylate-Based Antiscalant

This type of antiscalant has good dispersion properties, making it effective in handling multi-ion scaling. It also works well in preventing silica scaling and can be used in a wide range of pH conditions.

Applications:

• RO feed water with complex TDS
• Systems with varying water parameters
• Long-term use without frequent intervention

3. Polyphosphate-Based Antiscalant

Although more commonly used in non-RO applications, this type is sometimes used in RO pre-treatment or low-pressure RO systems. Polyphosphate works by binding metal ions and stabilizing minerals in solution.

Applications:

• Small-scale RO systems
• Pre-treatment systems
• Raw water with light scaling

Each type of antiscalant has a different formulation, and the selection of the type must be adjusted to the water quality analysis and the system used. That is why the role of technical consultants and laboratory testing is very important in determining the best solution.

Read Also: Scaling on RO Membranes: Causes and Prevention Methods

How Does Antiscalant Work in RO Systems?

The mechanism of action of antiscalants generally involves three main processes:

1. Threshold Inhibition

Antiscalant prevents mineral ions in water from crystallizing even when their concentration exceeds the solubility limit. This keeps minerals dissolved in water even in saturated conditions.

2. Crystal Modification

If crystals do form, antiscalant will disrupt the crystal growth structure. As a result, the crystals become deformed, unstable, and easily broken or carried away by the water flow before sticking to the surface.

3. Dispersion

Antiscalant also keeps small particles dispersed in the water and does not stick together to form a larger mass. This is very important to keep the system surface clean from deposits.

With these three mechanisms, antiscalant allows the water treatment system to operate at high efficiency and reduces the frequency of cleaning or shutdown.

Read Also: Reverse Osmosis: Water Purification Technology for the Highest Quality Standards

Benefits of Using Antiscalant

The proper use of antiscalant provides various real benefits for the water treatment system, including:

• Increasing the life of the RO membrane: Scaling is the main cause of membrane damage. Antiscalant slows down the physical degradation of the membrane, so that membrane replacement can be postponed.
• Increasing the efficiency of the RO system: A clean membrane allows the water separation process to run optimally, without increasing pressure or decreasing recovery.
• Reducing operational costs: Cleaning costs (CIP), energy, and membrane replacement can be significantly reduced.
• Reducing downtime: A scaling-free RO system requires less intervention, minimizing downtime and operational disruption.
• Stability of RO water quality: With an optimal membrane, the quality of the water (permeate) becomes consistent and meets specifications.

Professional Support for Optimizing Antiscalant Use

As a company with more than four decades of experience in the water treatment industry, Lautan Air Indonesia provides comprehensive antiscalant solutions that are tailored to customer needs. Our antiscalant products are designed to work optimally in various raw water and system conditions, from reverse osmosis, boilers, to cooling towers.

We provide not only products, but also comprehensive services such as:

• Water quality analysis through accredited laboratories
• Recommendation of the most appropriate type of antiscalant according to system conditions
• Technical support and training on the use
• Monitoring system performance to ensure long-term effectiveness
• Supply chain and inventory management for the continuity of chemical supply

With a solution-based approach, Lautan Air Indonesia is committed to helping customers keep their water treatment systems efficient, reliable, and sustainable.

Need the right antiscalants solution for your system?

Trust Lautan Air Indonesia as your reliable partner in water treatment. Contact our team today for technical consultation and customized solutions that suit your needs.

In the world of water treatment, the term dewatering is one of the important processes that cannot be ignored. Dewatering is not only about removing water, but also a crucial stage in the management of sludge from wastewater, raw water, and industrial waste. On a large scale, this process helps improve operational efficiency while reducing environmental burdens.

What is Dewatering?

Dewatering is the process of removing water content from sludge or solids formed during water and wastewater treatment. The main purpose of dewatering is to reduce the volume and weight of sludge, thus facilitating the handling, transportation, and final disposal processes.

In a water treatment system, sludge is a by-product of the clarification, coagulation, flocculation, and filtration processes. If not managed properly, sludge with high water content can cause logistical problems, expensive transportation costs, and significant environmental impacts. Therefore, dewatering is an important step in managing sludge more efficiently and sustainably.

Why is Dewatering Important?

Dewatering brings a number of strategic benefits to water treatment systems, including:

• Reduced Volume and Cost: By lowering the water content of sludge, less volume must be transported and disposed of, reducing transportation and final treatment costs.
• Improved Operational Efficiency: Dewatering helps treatment systems operate more efficiently by reducing the workload of subsequent processing units.
• Easier Handling: Dewatered sludge has a denser consistency, making it easier to manage and less likely to pollute the surrounding environment.
• Enhanced Environmental Compliance: Many environmental regulations require that the water content of solid waste be reduced before it is discharged or reused.

Read Also: How to Overcome High Sludge Volume Index (SVI) in Wastewater Treatment

Commonly Used Dewatering Methods

There are various dewatering methods that can be applied, depending on the characteristics of the sludge, the processing capacity, and the specific needs of the facility concerned. Here are some commonly used dewatering methods:

1. Gravity Thickening

This is the simplest method that relies on gravity to separate water from the sludge. The sludge is flowed into a thickener tank, where solid particles will settle at the bottom, while water will rise to the top and be discharged. Although simple and energy efficient, this method is not always efficient enough for sludge with high organic content or fine particles.

2. Belt Filter Press

This method uses two layers of cloth or filter belts that move constantly. The sludge is placed between the two belts and is mechanically pressed to remove water. Belt presses are very suitable for sludge with high consistency and can produce sludge cakes with low water content.

3. Centrifuge

A centrifuge uses high-speed centrifugal force to separate water from solids. This method is very efficient and fast, but requires high electrical energy and a higher initial investment cost. Suitable for facilities with high processing volumes and optimal drying needs.

4. Screw Press

Screw presses use mechanical pressure generated by a screw rotating inside a porous tube. Water will escape through the pore gaps, while solids are pushed to the end and removed as a cake. Screw presses are known to be energy efficient and relatively easy to maintain.

5. Drying Beds

This traditional method uses sand media to dry the sludge naturally in the sun. This process is very slow and weather-dependent, making it less suitable for facilities with fast processing needs and large capacities.

Read Also: What is Shock Load and Its Effects on Wastewater Treatment Plants

Dewatering Method Selection

There is no one dewatering method that is suitable for all conditions. Method selection should consider:

• Type and characteristics of sludge (organic, inorganic, viscosity, and initial water content)
• Volume of sludge to be treated
• Available space and infrastructure
• Final dryness requirements
• Investment and operational costs
• The final purpose of sludge cake disposal or utilization

Conclusion

Dewatering is not just a technical process in water treatment, but is an important element that determines the success of sludge and waste management. Choosing the right dewatering method can provide major benefits, from reducing operational costs to complying with environmental regulations.

To ensure that the dewatering process runs optimally and in accordance with the needs of your facility, trust Lautan Air Indonesia as a water treatment solution partner with more than four decades of experience. Contact our team for reliable and efficient consultation and integrated solutions.

Jakarta, June 12, 2025 – PT Lautan Air Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to providing water management solutions that comply with regulations and are oriented towards sustainability. Through its participation as an exhibitor and speaker at the Indonesia Water & Wastewater Expo & Forum (IWWEF) 2025, Lautan Air Indonesia is here to bring a strong message about the importance of cross-sector synergy in managing water services in Indonesia.

Carrying the topic of “Compliance and Reliable Water Management”, Lautan Air Indonesia invites water managers—including PDAM and SPAM operators—to work together to build a clean water and drinking water service system that meets national and international standards. The main focus raised includes compliance with chemical quality standards such as SNI, Halal, NSF, and ISO, which are important pillars in ensuring the quality, safety, and reliability of the water treatment process.

“We believe that the future of water services in Indonesia cannot be built alone, but must be built through cross-sector synergy. Through the A Path to Synergy session, we invite PDAM, technical services, industry players, and regulators to work together to realize water services that comply with regulations and are sustainable,” said Lucky Kurniawan, Marketing Manager of Lautan Air Indonesia.

Collaboration as the Foundation of Reliable Water Services

In this forum, Lautan Air Indonesia presented a collaborative approach as the key to long-term solutions. This approach covers various important aspects in water service management, including:

• Performance-based Operation and Maintenance (O&M) services, through a Performance Based Contract scheme that is oriented towards results and operational efficiency.
• A BNSP-certified technical team, which ensures that service implementation in the field is carried out according to professional standards and work safety.
• Expertise in complying with water regulations and certification, helping customers ensure that their systems and products comply with applicable regulations.
• Sustainable drinking water solutions such as Pureve, which offers a healthier, more practical, and environmentally friendly drinking water filtration and distribution system.

These solutions not only provide functional benefits for water managers, but also strengthen the integrity of the water management system in terms of quality and legal compliance.

“With our expertise in compliance, BNSP-certified technical team, performance-based O&M approach, and green technology drinking water solutions such as Pureve, we are confident that the right collaboration today will create a better world tomorrow,” said Guntur Widyatama, Operation & Maintenance Senior Manager, Lautan Air Indonesia.

Towards the Vision of “A Better World Through What We Do”

Lautan Air Indonesia’s participation in IWWEF 2025 is not only an exhibition event, but also a manifestation of a strategic step in strengthening its vision: “A Better World Through What We Do.” Through this forum, Lautan Air Indonesia not only presents its superior technology and services, but also expands its network and strengthens collaboration with various parties who share the same concern for the availability of safe, reliable, and sustainable water for the people of Indonesia.

To learn more about Lautan Air Indonesia’s solutions and services, please visit us at www.lautanairindonesia.com or contact our team to discuss your water management needs.

Also follow our official Instagram account at @lautanair.id to get the latest updates