Separation performance and interfacial properties of nanocomposite reverse osmosis membranes

MaryTheresa M. Pendergast, Asim K. Ghosh, E.M.V. Hoek

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

111 Scopus citations

Abstract

Four different types of nanocomposite reverse osmosis (RO) membranes were formed by interfacial polymerization of either polyamide (PA) or zeolite A-polyamide nanocomposite (ZA-PA) thin films over either pure polysulfone (PSf) or zeolite A-polysulfone nanocomposite (ZA-PSf) support membranes cast by wet phase inversion. All three nanocomposite membranes exhibited superior separation performance and interfacial properties relative to hand-cast TFC analogs including: (1) smoother, more hydrophilic surfaces (2) higher water permeability and salt rejection, and (3) improved resistance to physical compaction. Less compaction occurred for membranes with nanoparticles embedded in interfacially polymerized coating films, which adds further proof that flux decline associated with physical compaction is influenced by coating film properties in addition to support membrane properties. The new classes of nanocomposite membrane materials continue to offer promise of further improved RO membranes for use in desalination and advanced water purification. © 2011 Elsevier B.V.
Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)180-185
Number of pages6
JournalDesalination
Volume308
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2013
Externally publishedYes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Separation performance and interfacial properties of nanocomposite reverse osmosis membranes'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this