Method for fouling reduction on the surface of ceramic membranes using steam fast-flushing

A method for reducing fouling on the surface of a ceramic membrane or filter, the ceramic membrane or filter has a recalcitrant filtration cake on its surface that is non-responsive to removal by regular back-flushing or other physical means of removal,

• wherein the ceramic membrane or filter is subjected to steam fast-flushing by injecting steam directly in feed channel of the ceramic membrane or filter while back-flushing the ceramic membrane or filter at the same time to heat and remove the fouled layer on the ceramic membrane or filter while cooling a selective layer of the ceramic membrane or filter to avoid thermal shocking of the ceramic membrane or filter,
• wherein the surface of ceramic membrane or filter is cleaned with the ceramic membrane or filter being stationary.