The Effect of Amino-functionalized Nanodiamond Particles on the Abrasion Resistance of Cellulose Acetate Membranes

Membrane separation technology is one of the most efficient methods in separation science and processes due to its low energy consumption, easy scale-up, less or no use of chemicals, and absence of any harmful by-product formation. In this work, cellulose acetate (CA) nanocomposite membranes were prepared by embedding nanodiamond (ND) for improvement in the membrane abrasion resistance. In order to achieve an efficient dispersion of NDs in the polymeric matrix, they were functionalized via amine groups (ND-NH2). The thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) showed that the NH2 functional groups formed on the surface of ND. The obtained results showed that in the presence of ND-NH2, the abrasion resistance of nanocomposite CA membrane was three times higher than that of pristine CA membrane. The obtained results from SEM of abraded surfaces showed that more ploughed furrows and pittings are formed on the abraded surface of CA membrane. while, in the presence of ND-NH2 nanoparticles, the unenviable impact of abrasion test on the surface of the membrane was minimal and a smooth surface is observed.

Keywords:

Cellulose Acetate , Amino-functionalized , Nanodiamond , Abrasion Resisitance