g-C۳N۴ modified chitosan composite ultrafiltration (UF) membranes for improved performance and fouling resistance

In this study, a hydrophilic graphitic carbon nitride (g-C۳N۴) nanosheets was grafted with chitosan compound to produce NH۲ groups on the surface of g-C۳N۴ to fabricate ultrafiltration (UF) membranes with excellent antifouling and desalination properties. The results of FTIR and EDX analysis indicated the successful introduction of functional groups on the surface of g-C۳N۴ nanosheets. Based on the AFM results, the surface of the membranes modified with the functionalized g-C۳N۴- chitosan showed decreased roughness compared with membrane modified with bare g-C۳N۴ nanosheets. The surface hydrophilicity of the membranes was evaluated using contact angle analysis and the results showed an increase in the hydrophilicity of the modified membranes. The effect of incorporated g- g-C۳N۴- chitosan on the performance of the membranes was studied using pure water flux, NaCl and BSA solution filtration. The outcomes showed that introducing of the functionalized g- g-C۳N۴- chitosan in the membranes improved considerably the membrane permeation without decrease in rejection performance

Keywords:

g-C۳N۴ nanosheets , chitosan , ultrafiltration (UF) , Antifouling