New Applications of Membrane Processes The development of new applications of the established membrane processes MF, UF, NF and RO will be driven by economical and environmental targets. An additional driver for membrane processes is the high growth rate of the market for functional foods, a segment in which membranes has a high potential. In Table 1.4, some of the most recent research trends on membrane applications for MF, UF, NF and RO in the food industry are summarized.