A filtration procedure was developed to measure the reversibility of fouling during cross-flow filtration based on the square wave of applied pressure. The principle of this method, the apparatus required, and the associated mathematical relationships are detailed. This method allows for differentiating the reversible accumulation of matter on, and the irreversible fouling of, a membrane surface. Distinguishing these two forms of attachment to a membrane surface provides a means by which the critical flux may be determined. To validate this method, experiments were performed with a latex suspension at different degrees of destabilization (obtained by the addition of salt to the suspension) and at different cross-flow velocities. The dependence of the critical flux on these conditions is discussed and analysed through the osmotic pressure of the colloidal dispersion. (C) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.