Introduction

This chapter briefly introduces the fundamentals of membrane-based separation processes, membrane formation mechanisms, and hollow fiber spinning process. An overview of the book is also presented. Comparing to the other membrane configurations, the tubular hollow fiber membranes offer unique self-support characteristic, higher packing density in membrane modules, and lower system footprint. The phase separation mechanisms of polymeric dope solutions to form the hollow fibers are analyzed from both thermodynamic and kinetic aspects because dope composition and mass transfer between solvents and nonsolvents influence the membrane formation. Compared to flat membranes, fabrication of hollow fiber membranes is a more complicated process. Multiple factors such as the chemistry of polymeric dopes, internal and external coagulants, and spinning conditions affect the structure and performance of the resultant hollow fiber membranes.