Membranes for all

Introduction to membrane science and technology
Heinrich Strathmann
Wiley-VCH
2011| 544pp | £65 (HB)
ISBN 9783527324514
Reviewed by Steve Tarleton

In recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of books written about membranes. While this reflects the ever growing importance of membranes in processing and general raised interest within scientific and engineering communities, it can be difficult for the non-expert to find a sufficiently detailed, yet succinct, resource that provides informed guidance on both membrane fundamentals and their application. The book Introduction to membrane science and technology, which  is written by a knowledgeable and experienced author, achieves this goal with timely aplomb.

I was very impressed by the clear and logical layout of the book. Subjects are presented in a generally easy to follow manner, with the chapters Membrane preparation and characterisation, Principles of membrane separation processes and Membrane process design and operation being particularly good in my opinion.

Some readers may find the use of equations in parts of the book a bit daunting, however I can sympathise with the inevitable dilemma that the author faced here. He has largely achieved the correct balance between explaining the mathematical concepts behind membrane separations and showing how these can be applied in a realistic way to their design. The overall process is assisted by the welcome addition of an accompanying online question/solution resource.

The synopsis for the book states that it is aimed at 'advanced students as well as process and chemical engineers working in industry'. I would fully support this view and wholeheartedly recommend the book to such practitioners and similarly interested readers. It is a worthy addition to anyone's bookshelf.