Fabrication and Characterization of Novel Mixed Matrix Polyethersulfone Based Nanofiltration Membrane Modified by Ilmenite

This study focused on fabrication and characterization of mixed matrix poly ether sulfone based nanofiltration membrane by phase inversion method. The effect of different amounts of Ilmenite (FeTiO3) particles as inorganic filler additive in the casting solution on physic-chemical characteristics of membranes was studied. Scanning electron microscopy, surface analysis, water content, contact angle, permeation, rejection and tensile strength measurements were carried out in membrane characterization. SEM images showed asymmetric structures with a dense top layer and porous sublayer for the membranes. Images revealed that membrane sub-layer porosity was increased and toplayer thickness was decreased by FeTiO3 utilizing in membrane matrix. SEM images showed smooth surface for modified membranes compared to pristine one. Membrane water content was improvedinitially by increase of additive concentration up to 0.05 wt% into the casting solution and then was decreased. The contact angle measurements showed that membrane surface hydrophilicity was improved by using of Ilmenite in the membrane matrix. The membrane tensile strength was improved initially by increasing additive concentration into the casting solution and then was decreased. Utilizing of Ilmenite into the membrane matrix caused to increase of water flux and salt rejection from 10 to 172.4 L/m2·h and 53.9 % to 88.5% respectively

Keywords:

Mixed Matrix , Nanofiltration , Ilmenite Particles , Fabrication , Characterization , High Performance