Publication in the Journal of Membrane Science

We are proud to congratulate our PhD Researcher Seyyed Hossein Monsefi Estakhrposhti on the publication of his peer-reviewed article titled „Optimizing hollow fiber membrane oxygenators: A multi-objective approach for improved gas exchange and reduced blood damage“ in the Journal of Membrane Science. This publication contributes important insights into one of the key challenges in extracorporeal life support systems: the balance between efficient gas exchange and minimizing blood trauma.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a critical life-saving technology used in the treatment of patients with severe heart and lung failure. However, its clinical application is often limited by serious complications such as hemolysis and thrombosis. These issues highlight the urgent need for improved hollow fiber membrane oxygenator (HFMO) designs that enhance performance while safeguarding biocompatibility.

This study introduces a robust multi-objective optimization framework designed to improve oxygenator efficiency and reduce blood damage. By employing a two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model validated through micro-PIV measurements, the research evaluates 200 configurations of hollow fiber bundles. These are defined by key geometric parameters (fiber diameter, distance-to-diameter ratio, and fiber angle) and operational conditions (blood flow rate).

Three performance objectives were investigated:

Specific CO₂ removal (representing gas exchange efficiency),
Dead-zone-to-total-area ratio (an indicator of thrombosis potential),
Hemolysis index (quantifying red blood cell damage).

These objectives were modeled using multivariate polynomial functions with unknown exponents, optimized using a modified enhanced Jaya algorithm. Both single- and multi-objective optimization strategies were applied using Pareto front analysis, followed by decision-making techniques such as weighted sum and goal programming.

Key results include a maximum specific CO₂ removal of 250.3 mLCO₂ min⁻¹ m⁻², a minimum dead-zone ratio of 0.0254%, and a hemolysis index as low as 0.011 × 10⁻³%. The study identifies the distance-to-diameter ratio as the most influential geometric factor affecting all target objectives. Optimal designs feature a small fiber diameter, low inclination angle, moderate distance-to-diameter ratio, and a high blood flow rate—demonstrating a careful balance between enhanced performance and reduced biological stress.

Published in the Journal of Membrane Science, a very prestigious journal in the field of membrane research and separation technologies, this work sets a strong foundation for the future development of safer, more efficient oxygenators for intensive care and emergency medicine applications.

You can access the full article here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376738825005411?via%3Dihub