Edward L Cussler

Bio: Edward L Cussler is an academic researcher from University of Minnesota. The author has contributed to research in topics: Membrane & Ammonia. The author has an hindex of 64, co-authored 257 publications receiving 17601 citations. Previous affiliations of Edward L Cussler include University of Wisconsin-Madison & Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Diffusion: Mass Transfer in Fluid Systems

Abstract: This overview of diffusion and separation processes brings unsurpassed, engaging clarity to this complex topic. Diffusion is a key part of the undergraduate chemical engineering curriculum and at the core of understanding chemical purification and reaction engineering. This spontaneous mixing process is also central to our daily lives, with importance in phenomena as diverse as the dispersal of pollutants to digestion in the small intestine. For students, Diffusion goes from the basics of mass transfer and diffusion itself, with strong support through worked examples and a range of student questions. It also takes the reader right through to the cutting edge of our understanding, and the new examples in this third edition will appeal to professional scientists and engineers. Retaining the trademark enthusiastic style, the broad coverage now extends to biology and medicine.

Designing hollow-fiber contactors

Abstract: Hollow-fiber contactors can provide fast mass transfer without flooding or loading. They are a promising alternative to packed towers for gas treating, and to centrifugal extractors for liquid-liquid extraction. Hollow-fiber contractors can be designed effectively using the mass transfer correlations reported in this paper. The correlations, based on aqueous deaeration and carbon dioxide absorption, are similar to earlier heat and mass transfer correlations, but can be complicated by diffusion across the fiber wall and by alterations in fiber geometry.

Self-Assembled Block Copolymer Thin Films as Water Filtration Membranes

Abstract: Nanoporous membranes containing monodisperse pores of 24 nm diameter are fabricated using poly(styrene-b-lactide) block copolymers to template the pore structure. A 4 mum thin film of the block copolymer is cast onto a microporous membrane that provides mechanical reinforcement; by casting the copolymer film from the appropriate solvents and controlling the solvent evaporation rate, greater than 100 cm(2) of a thin film with polylactide cylinders oriented perpendicular to the thin dimension is produced. Exposing the composite membrane to a dilute aqueous base selectively etches the polylactide block, producing the porous structure. The ability of these pores to reject dissolved poly(ethylene oxide) molecules of varying molecular weight matches existing theories for transport through small pores.

Science and technology for water purification in the coming decades

Abstract: One of the most pervasive problems afflicting people throughout the world is inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. Problems with water are expected to grow worse in the coming decades, with water scarcity occurring globally, even in regions currently considered water-rich. Addressing these problems calls out for a tremendous amount of research to be conducted to identify robust new methods of purifying water at lower cost and with less energy, while at the same time minimizing the use of chemicals and impact on the environment. Here we highlight some of the science and technology being developed to improve the disinfection and decontamination of water, as well as efforts to increase water supplies through the safe re-use of wastewater and efficient desalination of sea and brackish water.

A Theoretical Basis for a Biopharmaceutic Drug Classification: The Correlation of in Vitro Drug Product Dissolution and in Vivo Bioavailability

Abstract: A biopharmaceutics drug classification scheme for correlating in vitro drug product dissolution and in vivo bioavailability is proposed based on recognizing that drug dissolution and gastrointestinal permeability are the fundamental parameters controlling rate and extent of drug absorption. This analysis uses a transport model and human permeability results for estimating in vivo drug absorption to illustrate the primary importance of solubility and permeability on drug absorption. The fundamental parameters which define oral drug absorption in humans resulting from this analysis are discussed and used as a basis for this classification scheme. These Biopharmaceutic Drug Classes are defined as: Case 1. High solubility-high permeability drugs, Case 2. Low solubility-high permeability drugs, Case 3. High solubility-low permeability drugs, and Case 4. Low solubility-low permeability drugs. Based on this classification scheme, suggestions are made for setting standards for in vitro drug dissolution testing methodology which will correlate with the in vivo process. This methodology must be based on the physiological and physical chemical properties controlling drug absorption. This analysis points out conditions under which no in vitro-in vivo correlation may be expected e.g. rapidly dissolving low permeability drugs. Furthermore, it is suggested for example that for very rapidly dissolving high solubility drugs, e.g. 85% dissolution in less than 15 minutes, a simple one point dissolution test, is all that may be needed to insure bioavailability. For slowly dissolving drugs a dissolution profile is required with multiple time points in systems which would include low pH, physiological pH, and surfactants and the in vitro conditions should mimic the in vivo processes. This classification scheme provides a basis for establishing in vitro-in vivo correlations and for estimating the absorption of drugs based on the fundamental dissolution and permeability properties of physiologic importance.

Membrane Technology and Applications

Abstract: Overview of membrane science and technology membrane transport theory membrane and modules concentration polarization reverse osmosis ultrafiltration microfiltration gas separation pervaporation ion exchange membrane processes - electrodialysis carrier facilitated transport medical applications of membranes other membranes processed.