Abstract
In the present work, a highly efficient mixed matrix membrane (MMM) for humic acid (HA) removal was developed. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were functionalized in the presence of 3-methacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane using the co-condensation method and were subsequently loaded with TiO2 (prepared via the sol–gel route). The as-prepared material was then incorporated into a PES polymer solution to prepare a fMWCNT-TiO2/PES hybrid membrane via non-solvent induced phase inversion. The microstructure of the membrane was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, water contact angle, thickness, porosity, and pore size. The fMWCNT-TiO2/PES hybrid membrane was tested for the removal of HA and antifouling performance. The results show that the surface hydrophilicity of the membranes was greatly improved upon the addition of the fMWCNT-TiO2 particles. The results show that 92% of HA was effectively removed after 1 h of filtration. In comparison with pristine membrane, the incorporation of fMWCNT-TiO2 nanoparticles led to enhanced pure water flux (99.05 L/m2 h), permeate flux (62.01 L/m2 h), higher HA rejection (92%), and antifouling improvement (RFR: 37.40%, FRR: 86.02%). Thus, the fMWCNT-TiO2/PES hybrid membrane is considered to be a great potential membrane for the improvement of ultrafiltration membranes.
Highlights
In the past, numerous approaches have been the main focus of scientific research for the removal of natural organic matter (NOM), including humic acid (HA), in natural waters and soil
The results show that all of the matrix membrane (MMM) present greater pure water flux (PWF) (JWF) values compared to the pure PES membranes (81.05 L/m2 h)
Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) particles were successfully functionalized using co-precipitation and were loaded with TiO2 particles to prepare a hybrid membrane for the removal of humic acid (HA)
Summary
Numerous approaches have been the main focus of scientific research for the removal of natural organic matter (NOM), including humic acid (HA), in natural waters and soil. The approaches used to reduce or eliminate HA include coagulation–flocculation [3], filtration [4], biological treatments [5,6], advanced oxidation technology [7,8], adsorption [9,10], and membrane separation [11]. Polymeric membranes are a crucial component for technological membrane processes and are limited due to fouling. The development of highly efficient membranes for HA removal from aqueous solutions has become the research focus for drinking water treatment
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