Types of impeller with respect to blades:

Forward vanes:
The outlet tip of the vane is curved forward in the direction of rotation of the impeller. The
impeller having such vanes is called slow speed impeller. This type of the impeller has low
efficiency about 75%.

Backward vanes:
The outlet tip of the vane is curved backward in the direction of rotation of the impeller. The
impeller having such vanes is called fast speed impeller. This type of impeller gives highest
efficiency about 85% to 90%.
Radial vanes:
These vanes have outlet tips in radial direction. The impeller having such vanes is called
medium speed impeller. The efficiency of this type of impeller varies from 80% to 85%.

Types of impeller with respect to construction:

Open impeller:
An open impeller has vanes that are attached to a center hub and mounted directly onto a
shaft. There is no wall surrounding the vanes which makes open impellers weaker than closed
or semi-closed valves. Open impellers are generally faster and easier to clean and repair.  Open
impellers are usually used in smaller pumps and pumps that handle suspended solids. 
Closed impeller:
Closed impellers have a back and front wall around the vanes, to increase strength.  Closed
impellers are used primarily in larger pumps and can be used in applications that handle
suspended-solid service. These types of impellers are commonly found in clear liquid
applications. They don't do well with solids and are difficult to clean if they become clogged. 

Semi open impeller:

If the vanes of the impeller are covered with plate on one side, it is called semi open impeller. It
has less number of vanes, but its height is more than that of closed impeller. They can be used
in medium-diameter pumps and with liquids containing small amounts of suspended solids.