Biofouling prevention using silver nanoparticle impregnated polyethersulfone (PES) membrane: E. coli cell-killing in...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Biofouling severely degrades membrane performance in water treatment.
• Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) show antimicrobial properties, but their application in membranes requires careful control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an Ag-NP-impregnated SPES membrane for effective biofouling prevention.
• To ensure bacterial inactivation, safe permeate water quality, and enhanced membrane durability.

Main Methods:

• Selective impregnation of Ag-NPs onto the surface of a sulfonated polyethersulfone (SPES) membrane.
• Testing the Ag-SPES membrane in a continuous cross-flow module with E. coli contaminated water.

Main Results:

• Achieved zero E. coli count in permeate water.
• Maintained Ag concentration below 10μg/L, well within WHO limits for drinking water.
• Increased membrane tensile strength from 2.78MPa to 3.92MPa.
• Delivered a consistent permeate flow rate of 3.45L/hour.

Conclusions:

• The Ag-SPES membrane effectively prevents biofouling and inactivates bacteria in continuous operation.
• The membrane offers enhanced mechanical properties and ensures safe permeate water quality.
• This Ag-NP-impregnated membrane presents a viable solution for long-term, effective water purification.