Abstract

A new class of robust carbon nanotube (CNT) membranes is developed using a scalable chemical vapor deposition method by direct growth of the CNT on a nickel alloy (Hastelloy) mesh with micrometer-sized openings. The developed membranes have a dense, entangled network of CNT with 50–500 nm pore openings and are superhydrophobic. These CNT membranes are resistant to air oxidation up to ∼500 °C and chemical corrosion in concentrated HCl or NaCl solutions. Adhesion and ultrasonication tests suggest that the developed CNT membranes are resistant to delamination and demonstrate a high interfacial bonding of the grown CNT with the alloy substrate. Potential application of the developed CNT-Hastelloy membranes for separation is explored by conducting membrane distillation tests using a 10,000 mg/L NaCl solution. The developed membranes show similar salt rejection performance compared with a carbon bucky paper membrane. These robust carbon nanotube membranes are reusable and expected to be less susceptible to fouling because of their superhydrophobic properties. Furthermore, if fouled, they can be regenerated by heating in air or using an acid wash.

Full Text
Paper version not known

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 call

Disclaimer: 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.