TMU-5 metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as a novel nanofiller for flux increment and fouling mitigation in PES ultrafiltration membrane

Abstract

Abstract In this study, a novel hydrophilic polyethersulfone (PES) ultrafiltration membrane was synthesized by blending of TMU-5 Metal-Organic frameworks (MOFs) via the phase inversion method. The sequel of the incorporated MOFs on the morphology and efficiency of the constructed neoteric membranes was investigated in terms of pure water flux, and fouling parameters. The microstructure of the fabricated membranes was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and water contact angle. The antifouling process using a feed solution of 40,000 ppm engine oil/water mixtures leads to a well performance of the newly interconnected structure membranes (>98%) which possess great advantages for oil-water separation. The SEM photographs demonstrated an increase in pore size and porosity of the prepared membranes with blending of the MOF that reflected the symptoms in the pure water flux increased up to 182 (kg/m2 h). Furthermore, surface hydrophilicity of the reclaimed membranes was improved due to water tendency improvement of the membrane surface. The antifouling properties of the membranes were assessed by powder milk solution and measuring the flux recovery ratio (FRR). The 0.1 wt% MOF NPs–PES membrane displayed the highest FRR value (98.74%) and the lowest irreversible fouling resistance (Rir) value (1.25%). As a conclusion, the addition of MOF nano particles (NPs) at a low concentration (0.1 wt%) could result in membranes with more pure water flux, higher rejection and good fouling resistance compared to the unfilled PES membrane.