Abstract
Polyethersulfone (PES) is the most commonly used polymer for membrane ultrafiltration because of its superior properties. However, it is hydrophobic, as such susceptible to fouling and low permeation rate. This study proposes a novel bio-based additive of dragonbloodin resin (DBR) for improving the properties and performance of PES-based membranes. Four flat sheet membranes were prepared by varying the concentration of DBR (0–3%) in the dope solutions using the phase inversion method. After fabrication, the membranes were thoroughly characterized and were tested for filtration of humic acid solution to investigate the effect of DBR loading. Results showed that the hydrophilicity, porosity, and water uptake increased along with the DBR loadings. The presence of DBR in the dope solution fastened the phase inversion, leading to a more porous microstructure, resulted in membranes with higher number and larger pore sizes. Those properties led to more superior hydraulic performances. The PES membranes loaded with DBR reached a clean water flux of 246.79 L/(m2·h), 25-folds higher than the pristine PES membrane at a loading of 3%. The flux of humic acid solution reached 154.5 ± 6.6 L/(m2·h), 30-folds higher than the pristine PES membrane with a slight decrease in rejection (71% vs. 60%). Moreover, DBR loaded membranes (2% and 3%) showed an almost complete flux recovery ratio over five cleaning cycles, demonstrating their excellent antifouling property. The hydraulic performance could possibly be enhanced by leaching the entrapped DBR to create more voids and pores for water permeation.
Highlights
Membrane filtration has been recognized as one of the best methods for surface water purification and wastewater treatment [1]
Most of the polymeric membranes are produced in full-scale by using the phase inversion method [5,6]
This study explored a new type of biobased resin polymer in form of dragonbloodin resin (DBR) for blending with PES to form ultrafiltration membranes
Summary
Membrane filtration has been recognized as one of the best methods for surface water purification and wastewater treatment [1]. It offers several advantages, including low energy consumption, simple operation at room temperature, low footprint, and can be combined with other processes [2]. Most of the polymeric membranes are produced in full-scale by using the phase inversion method [5,6]. The basic protocol is by dissolving a polymer into its solvent and cast into a thin film, followed by immersion in a coagulation bath containing its nonsolvent (mostly water). The protocol can be modified and optimized, including incorporating additive or polymers blending to yield the most optimum membrane properties
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
