Abstract
In this study, we utilized the NaOH solution as a heat-treating medium to replace the conventional oven-heating process after interfacial polymerization for the RO membrane fabrication. XPS result confirmed that the nascent RO membrane possessed a gradient cross-linking density along the polyamide layer depth, which is relatively loose on top and dense facing the substrate. The top loose polyamide could be exfoliated under NaOH treatment. The TFC membrane treated in a 1.5 mol L-1 NaOH solution exhibited a pure water flux nearly 3 times higher than that heat-treated in a water bath and also maintained a high NaCl rejection. In consideration of the practical operation process, membrane stability was evaluated, and the results showed that the membrane heat-treated by 1.5 mol L-1 NaOH solution possessed good long-term and pH stability. Thus, the facile heat-treating strategy provides a new path for fabricating high flux TFC-RO membranes.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
