Effect of polymer type on characterization and filtration performances of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT)-COOH-based polymeric mixed matrix membranes

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) can be used for the fabrication of mixed matrix polymeric membranes that can enhance filtration perfomances of the membranes by modifying membrane surface properties. In this study, detailed characterization and filtration performances of MWCNTs functionalized with COOH group, blended into polymeric flat-sheet membranes were investigated using different polymer types. Morphological characterization was carried out using atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and contact angle measurements. For filtration performance tests, protein, dextran, E. coli suspension, Xanthan Gum and real activated sludge solutions were used. Experimental data and analyses revealed that Polyethersulfone (PES) + MWCNT-COOH mixed matrix membranes have superior performance abilities compared to other tested membranes

Protein mediated textile dye filtration using graphene oxide-polysulfone composite membranes

Here we report graphene oxide (GO) concentration dependent protein binding (BSA) and dye filtration (RO-16) capabilities of polysulfone-GO composite membranes under different pH conditions (2, 7 and 10). The membranes were fabricated with different GO concentrations (1, 2, 4 and 8% w/w) and were successfully characterized for their physical and chemical properties, as well as for their performance ability. The best BSA binding and dye rejection rates were observed with 2% GO membrane at pH = 10, which were 95% and 78.26% respectively, suggesting that 2% is the optimal concentration. Further, considering the fact that RO-16 dye is acidic friendly, contact time studies were carried out with 2% GO membranes at pH = 2 and pH = 10. It was observed that 2% GO-polysulfone membrane at pH = 2 shows the highest dye rejection rate of 87.4%, supporting the importance of contact time in filtration technology

Membrane properties and anti-bacterial/anti-biofouling activity of polysulfone-graphene oxide composite membranes phase inversed in graphene oxide non-solvent

A new and facile method for the fabrication of polysulfone-graphene oxide composite membranes is reported, where after casting, phase inversion is carried out with graphene oxide flakes (GO) in a coagulation bath. The membranes were characterized and the morphology was analysed using scanning electron microscopy. A bacterial inhibition ratio of 74.5% was observed with membranes fabricated from a very low concentration of di-water-GO non-solvent (0.048% of GO). The membranes were successfully tested for permeate flux and fouling resistance using activated sludge filtration from an MBR system. The observed trend shows that GO can operate as a protective barrier for membrane pores against the bacterial community. To our knowledge this is the first time where the immersion precipitation mechanism was carried out in a coagulation bath with GO flakes under continuous stirring. Using this method, a very low concentration of GO is required to fabricate membranes with conventional GO composite membrane properties and better selectivity. \ua9 The Royal Society of Chemistry

High performance polyamide thin film composite (PA-TFC) desalination membranes modified by zwitterionic silanes

By: Ilter, Selda Erkoc; Sharabati, Jalal; Saffarimiandoab, Farzin; et al. Conference: 254th National Meeting and Exposition of the American-Chemical-Society (ACS) on Chemistry's Impact on the Global Economy Location: Washington, DC Date: AUG 20-24, 2017  Sponsor(s):  Volume: 254 Meeting Abstract: 57 Published: AUG 20 201