Characteristics and separation efficiencies of PPSU/PEI/PEG blend membranes with different compositions for water treatment

Abstract

To overcome the problems and constraints in the application of single organic membranes in wastewater treatment or water reuse processes, different blend membranes were prepared and modified to improve the separation efficiency of humic acids (HAs) and mitigate the fouling problems occurring during water purification. This study extends the results of our previous research and further investigates the relationships between the composition of polyphenylsulfone/polyetherimide/polyethylene glycol (PPSU/PEI/PEG) blend membranes and membrane characteristics and performance. The experimental results showed that the PEI and PEG component ratios of PPSU could significantly affect the blend membrane structure, morphology, and properties. With the increase in PEG concentration, the pore volume, pore size distribution, and permeability of the blend membranes was enhanced. The hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties of the blend membranes can be modified by changing the PPSU/PEI ratios. The optimum composition of the PPSU/PEI/PEG blend membrane was 35/5/6 wt%, and the corresponding permeability and HAs separation efficiency was 127 Lm⁻²h⁻¹ and 83%, respectively.