Membrane Science and Technology (MST)

The Department of Membrane Science and Technology links fundamental research regarding membrane materials and their transport characteristics to relevant application areas. 

In the sustainable chemistry of the future, membranes will make a difference: they allow gases and liquids to be separated in a low-energy, efficient way, while generating much smaller waste streams. Membrane technology contributes to cleaner water and sustainable energy production. Membranes have to meet strict requirements, and the development of tailor-made solutions requires not only knowledge of membrane materials but also of their possible application areas. The strength of the department of Membrane Science and Technology lies in the long, rich tradition of research in this area at the University of Twente and in the close cooperation between about 60 researchers from a variety of different, but synergistic scientific disciplines. This gives our cluster a solid knowledge of the entire chain: from the fundamental basics to the technology required to construct these membranes, and to the design of industrial applications.  

What makes us special is the broad scope of our research, which enables us to make steps that would otherwise be impossible. We work from molecular scale, developing new membranes, all the way up to industrial membrane processes. We couple in-depth fundamental insights to today's societal challenges.

Thanks to our expertise and high-quality facilities, research groups from all over the world, small and medium-sized businesses, and leading high-tech companies such as Oasen, Shell and Philips are keen to work closely with us. The Department of Membrane Science and Technology is a partner in Wetsus, the centre of excellence for sustainable water technology, and in the Institute for Sustainable Process Technology (ISPT). Our activities have generated a number of spin-off companies, including X-Flow, NX Filtration and Convergence. Our knowledge also finds its way to market through the European Membrane Institute (EMI Twente) at the University of Twente.

Philips wants to be at the fore front of innovation. The Membrane Science & Technology cluster proved to be an inspiring scientific community, therefore we are very pleased with our collaboration. The fundamental research which the cluster is known for triggers new view points from a physical chemistry perspective, supporting our multi-disciplinary approach to come to meaningful innovations in personal health.

our People

Our cluster unites a large variety of excellent scientists, inspiring teachers and talented students who each make their own contribution to the research and education in Membrane Science and Technology. Meet all our people.

Our results

The Membrane Science & Technology cluster makes a relevant contribution to the fundamentals of membrane materials and transport properties to thorough knowledge of application areas, for tailor-made membrane development. The results are evident in our numerous publications as well as in various high-profile achievements.

Our research groups

The Membrane Science & Technology cluster consists of various diverse, but synergetic, scientific disciplines:

• Membrane Surface Science
• Soft Matter, Fluidics and Interfaces
• Films in Fluids
• Membrane Process Technology, which consists of the research chairs
  • Membranes for Harsh Conditions
  • Membrane Processes for Food
  • Membrane Technology and Engineering for Water Treatment

Alongside the research groups, EMI Twente conducts contract research for industrial clients. EMI brings the practical implementation of an idea a step closer. EMI helps you bridging the gap between science and industry.

Our engagement in research and education

Based on our disciplinary strength and scientific excellence, our cluster engages in various initiatives, programs and projects in both teaching and research. The Membrane Science & Technology cluster contributes to the excellent, multidisciplinary research within scientific institutes, such as MESA+: one of the worlds leading research institutes for nanotechnology. Furthermore, education is one of our core tasks. Our people play a strong role in the Chemical Science & Engineering curriculum.