Fouling

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-004613",
  "term": "Fouling",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The undesirable accumulation of unwanted material on the surface of a membrane or other solid material, leading to a decrease in performance. In polymer membranes, fouling can be caused by the deposition of colloids, macromolecules, or microorganisms from the feed stream. This phenomenon reduces flux and increases operating costs in separation processes.",
  "subject": "Polymer",
  "see_also": [
    "membrane"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1996, 68, 1479. 'Terminology for membranes and membrane processes (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)' on page 1482 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199668071479)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/fouling/"
}