The initial objective was the development of textile media with a specific ion exchange property. IFTH has demonstrated the feasibility of grafting functional monomer with an ion exchange property (anion and cation). Promising results were obtained. Grafted nonwovens have been created (specific electrodialysor for ground water purification, radial regenerative filter, high flow rate for plating rinsing effluents, specific cartridge for water purification and/or decontamination in nuclear power plant) and successfully used in specific filtration devices.
The main end users are: plating SME, companies specialised in drinking water distribution, nuclear power stations. With the newly obtained properties, the products could also concern traditional sectors and ultra-pure water production. Consequently, there is a significant market potential.
The most important innovative aspects of the development are:
- EBC grafting technology adapted to textile finishing
- filtration and purification properties of the grafted nonwovens
- implementation of grafted textile products in several filtration devices
Natural textile properties combined with ion exchange functions open up a new way in filtration. In comparison to current ion exchange resins, these innovative textile products offer a higher efficiency in diluted conditions and lower consumption expenses (water, energy, chemicals) during regeneration cycles, as well as the possibility to work at a high flow rate.