This is a recommendation for an award to support research on the feasibility of developing a novel, non-caxing ultrasonic filter. This device uses standard filter membranes placed in an acoustic field that traps and transports particles away from the filter surface. Both solid and fluid particles suspended in a fluid medium may be acted upon by the moving pressure surface. The filter will have application such as clearing bacteria from reverse osmosis membranes and for desalination and to improve fermentation process harvesting. The research is consistent with the Environmental Engineering program objectives. The investigators are appropriately qualified to carry out the research. This proposal is in response to NSF's a SBIR Phase I Program Announcement NSF 86-19. An award of $40,000 for six months starting February 1, 1986 is recommended.
