Monthly Archives: November 2017

Environmental educators in Pensacola are acquainting kids with water filtration in a new, hands-on way. Instead of a class turtle, these students are raising baby oysters. This program is sponsored by the Pensacola Bay Oyster Company and supports a local nonprofit, the Bream Fisherman Association, in its efforts to educate a new generation on marine wildlife preservation. Students contribute to the efforts to expand oyster populations in Pensacola Bay by purchasing and raising baby oysters (spat). It is a challenging and rewarding task, as baby oysters are not easily cared for. They are sensitive to salinity and other environmental changes, and must be maintained in the proper environment 2 feet below the water’s surface. The juvenile oyster cages must be periodically monitored and cleaned. Only after nine months of attention are the oysters mature enough to be placed in reefs or farms.

What is membrane preconditioning and why is it recommended to precondition new flat sheet or spiral wound membranes prior to use? Membrane preconditioning is a filtration step using deionized water as feed solution and is typically performed at a pressure equal to or higher than the anticipated testing pressure. During this process membrane pores are wetted and the membrane structure may go through compaction or swelling, affecting both the permeate flux and the rejection values. Preconditioning will help ensure that the membrane performs according to the specs provided by the manufacturer.

In the spirit of giving, we want to give thanks to all our customers and partners who have made 2017 a wonderful and memorable year. We look forward to continuing to foster these relationships in the years to come.