Abstract
Thin film nanocomposite membranes have become a feasible technology for heavy metal wastewater treatment. However, how to enhance the dispersibility and compatibility of nanomaterials in the selective layer is an important issue to improve the membrane performance of heavy metal removal. In this study, silica-poly(ionic liquid) nanoparticles were incorporated in the selective layer of TFN membranes. 1-Allyl-3-methyl imidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([AMIm]PF6) was selected to modify silica (SiO2) particles. The formed poly([AMIm]+) brushes provided charge properties to enhance dispersibility and organic part to improve compatibility in the polyamide layer of NF membranes. The resultant TFN membranes incorporated with SiO2-[AMIm]PF6 particles exhibited an increment of 34% water permeation and 41.6% MgCl2 rejection. Moreover, with an average rejection improvement of around 15% for heavy metal ions at pH = 5–6, the SiO2-[AMIm]PF6/PA membrane showed its superiority beyond the PA membrane. The electropositivity and microporous structure of the SiO2-[AMIm]PF6 particles enhanced their dispersibility and compatibility in the polyamide layer. Meanwhile, the proper pore size and structure of the SiO2-[AMIm]PF6 particles contributed to the channels for water transport and the sieving effect for most heavy metal ions. This work may facilitate the applications of TFN membranes in heavy metal wastewater treatment to alleviate the “trade-off” phenomenon.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
