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Updated: Mar 7, 2026
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Synthesis of Hydrogels with Antifouling Properties As Membranes for Water Purification
Published on: April 7, 2017
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Regenerable Polyelectrolyte Membrane for Ultimate Fouling Control in Forward Osmosis
Yan Kang1, Sunxiang Zheng2, Casey Finnerty2
1Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States.
Environmental Science & Technology
|February 17, 2017
Summary
This study shows regenerable polyelectrolyte membranes can prevent irreversible fouling in forward osmosis (FO). In situ regeneration restores membrane performance, offering a cost-effective solution for water treatment.
Area of Science:
- Membrane Science and Technology
- Water Treatment Technologies
- Materials Science
Background:
- Irreversible membrane fouling remains a significant challenge in forward osmosis (FO) processes.
- Existing solutions often involve costly membrane replacement or harsh cleaning methods.
- Developing robust and regenerable membranes is crucial for sustainable FO applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the feasibility of using regenerable polyelectrolyte membranes for controlling irreversible fouling in FO.
- To investigate the performance and regeneration mechanism of a novel PEI/PAA bilayer membrane.
- To assess the potential for reducing operational costs in FO-based water treatment systems.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a regenerable membrane using sequential assembly of polyethylenimine (PEI) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) bilayers on a polysulfone support.
- Evaluation of membrane performance in FO mode using trisodium citrate as draw solute.
- In situ membrane regeneration via acid-induced disassembly and reassembly of PEI-PAA bilayers.
- Assessment of membrane flux (water and solute) before and after fouling and regeneration.
Main Results:
- The fabricated polyelectrolyte membrane exhibited superior performance in FO mode compared to PRO mode.
- Membrane regeneration using acid treatment effectively removed fouling while preserving underlying layers.
- The regenerated membrane showed performance comparable to the original membrane after alginate fouling.
- A residual layer after acid treatment protected the support from foulant penetration.
Conclusions:
- Regenerable polyelectrolyte membranes offer a viable strategy to overcome irreversible fouling in FO.
- In situ regeneration is an effective and potentially cost-saving alternative to membrane replacement.
- This approach could significantly enhance the long-term operational efficiency and economic viability of FO systems.
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