Strengthening the membrane of EU–Russia cooperation
Membranes are film-like structures that act as selective barriers for liquids and gases, allowing some species (molecules, ions etc.) to pass through while retaining others. Major applications for membranes include filtration systems, reverse osmosis, dialysis and pervaporation. Membranes consume less energy than other alternatives and do not require absorbents or solvents, which makes them more environmentally friendly. However, their wider application is held back by fouling (the decrease of function due to use), scale-up risk and cost. Funded by the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), the 'Bridge between environment and industry designed by membrane technology' (MEMBRIDGE) project sought to deepen cooperation between the EU and the Russian Federation in this promising field. One of the project's main pillars was the establishment of a Russian network, RusMemNet, focusing on the environmental applications of membrane technologies. In addition, MEMBRIDGE organised partnering events, in Brussels and Moscow, which involved numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). There were also a number of site visits to research facilities and industrial operations. On the information side, the project set up an e-platform, including a database of membrane-related research themes as well as research and development (R&D) institutions and companies working in the field. The MEMBRIDGE consortium has built a bridge between the EU and Russia, which the membrane research communities have started to cross, with significantly more 'traffic' expected in the coming years , particularly around three main thematics, namely 'Towards zero liquid discharge technologies', ‘Membrane reactors for biotechnology', 'Membrane processes for industry' (with two sub-thematics: gas separation and organic solvent nanofiltration).