Vibratory shear-enhanced process

Vibratory shear enhanced process (VSEP) is a membrane separation technology platform invented in 1987 and patented in 1989 by Dr. J. Brad Culkin. VSEP’s vibration system was designed to prevent membrane fouling, or the build-up of solid particles on the surface of the membrane. VSEP systems have been applied in a variety of industrial environments.

History and technology development

After earning his PhD in chemical engineering from Northwestern University. Dr. Culkin spent his early professional career with Dorr–Oliver, Inc., a pioneering company in the area of separations. Culkin contributed to six Dorr–Oliver patent applications in 1985 and 1986.

While at Dorr–Oliver, Dr. Culkin was exposed to the advantages of membrane separation technology as well as its failings. The membrane’s Achilles Heel, Culkin decided, was fouling.

Concurrent with his membrane work, Culkin was helping to develop a mechanically resonating loudspeaker with the founders of Velodyne Acoustics. Culkin married these two areas of expertise and struck out to overcome membrane fouling though the use of vibration.