Abstract
Organic–inorganic hybrid membranes represent an efficient approach to construct membranes with both improved membrane flux and solute selectivity. Zwitterions bearing equimolar number of anions and cations in one monomer unit exhibit excellent anti-fouling characteristics. Based on the exceptional separation performance of hybrid membrane and fouling resistance feature of zwitterions, a novel nanofiltration membrane was fabricated by incorporating zwitterionic functionalized titanium nanotubes (z-TNTs) into polyamide (PA) layer. The special tubular structure of z-TNTs can provide more and shorter internal channels to shorten flow lanes for water molecules. The zwitterionic functionalization on the titanium nanotubes surface improved not only the interfacial compatibility between nano-materials and polymer matrix but also the antifouling performance of membranes. The water flux of membrane prepared with z-TNTs was up to 220 L m−2 h−1 MPa−1 while the Na2SO4 rejection remained above 90%. The as-prepared z-TNTs/PA membrane exhibited improved anti-fouling property against protein with a notably reduced flux decline ratio.
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.
