Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Ultrafiltration is the process of separating fine particles, ions, or polymers from suspensions or solutions by virtue of size exclusion by a semipermeable membrane. This book is a comprehensive reference, designed more as an introduction and survey of the state of the art than for the expert in the field. The eight chapters cover definitions, membrane properties, modeling, equipment, fouling, process design, and applications. Approximately one third of the book is devoted to applications, with heavy emphasis on biotechnology topics, in keeping with Cheryan's experience and background in food science. Except for a few basic equations in the chapters on modeling and process design, the approach is largely nonmathematical with liberal usage of figures, diagrams, tables, and photographs. The text is quite readable, and the level is appropriate for an introduction for those with no previous knowledge of the field. It is especially appropriate for those interested in a detailed qualitative description of equipment and processes in a variety of applications. Although no problems or exercises are included, the book could serve as a textbook, for an introduction to the topic, or as a reference book for a course dealing with a wider range of separations processes. Recommended for engineering collections.-R. Darby, Texas A & M University