Image cake characterization

In addition, it is important to consider what kind of information can be obtained from CSLM images. Visualization of the membrane/cake/foulants can be obtained through 3D reconstructions performed with the available commercial software. The 3D reconstructions offer a view of a single field in the analyzed sample and therefore, unless the sample is very homogeneous, the 3D reconstructions should be considered to provide qualitative or local information. To obtain quantitative information statistically representative of the whole analyzed specimen, a suitable sampling design has to be performed. Besides, it should be considered that the kind of information obtained is very valuable mainly if it is processed using software that enables the characterization of 3D structures (pore connectivity, tortuosity, porosity). 

This experimental technique also allows the deposit growth to be characterized versus time by applying the method presented above for successive images and thus the cake growth kinetics to be obtained. The image acquisition rate is chosen by the operator (down to a few images per second) so that this measurement technique could be used for various membrane fouling kinetics. 

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