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Charge tunable thin-film composite membranes by gamma-ray triggered surface polymerization
Rackel Reis1,2, Mikel C Duke3, Blaise L Tardy4
1Institute for Sustainability for Innovation, College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia. rackel.reis@live.vu.au.edu.
Scientific Reports
|July 2, 2017
Summary
Researchers developed a novel gamma-ray grafting method to control the surface charge of poly(amide) (PA) membranes. This technique enhances water flux by over 55% while maintaining high salt rejection for broader applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Chemistry
- Membrane Technology
Background:
- Thin-film composite poly(amide) (PA) membranes are crucial for water purification and food processing.
- Controlling the electrostatic interactions and surface charge of PA membranes is essential for expanding their applications.
- The ionic selectivity of PA membranes is significantly influenced by solution pH.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel and convenient method for configuring the surface charge of PA membranes.
- To investigate the effects of gamma-ray induced surface grafting on PA membrane properties.
- To enhance the performance of PA membranes for wider applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilized gamma-ray induced surface grafting to modify the surface of PA membranes.
- Adjusted irradiation total dose and monomer concentration to control surface grafting.
- Investigated the impact of grafting on net surface charge and isoelectric point.
Main Results:
- Achieved significant alteration of net surface charge from -25 mV to +45 mV by grafting thin coatings.
- Shifted the isoelectric point of the membranes from pH 3 to pH 7.
- Improved water flux by over 55% (from 45.9 to 70 L.m⁻².h⁻¹) with only a 1% drop in NaCl rejection.
Conclusions:
- Gamma-ray induced surface grafting offers a rapid, scalable, and versatile method for PA membrane surface modification.
- The configured surface charge significantly enhances membrane performance, particularly water flux.
- This approach holds promise for developing advanced PA membranes with tailored properties for diverse applications.
