Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 3, 2026
10:53
Anionic Polymerization of an Amphiphilic Copolymer for Preparation of Block Copolymer Micelles Stabilized by π-π Stacking Interactions
Published on: October 10, 2016
14.6K
Bioinspired Block Copolymer for Mineralized Nanoporous Membrane
Hui-Jun Zhou1, Guan-Wen Yang1, Yao-Yao Zhang1
1MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, and Key Laboratory of Adsorption and Separation Materials & Technologies of Zhejiang Province, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering , Zhejiang University , Hangzhou 310027 , China.
ACS Nano
|November 2, 2018
Summary
We developed a novel organic-mineral composite nanoporous membrane using block copolymers (BCPs). This superhydrophilic and mechanically stable membrane offers enhanced fouling resistance for advanced filtration applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Block copolymers (BCPs) enable well-ordered nanostructures for precise separation.
- Existing BCP membranes face challenges in mechanical integrity, hydrophilicity, and pore functionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an organic-mineral composite hybrid nanoporous BCP membrane with improved properties.
- To address limitations in mechanical stability, hydrophilicity, and fouling resistance of BCP membranes.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a poly(propylene carbonate)- block-poly(4-vinylcatechol acetonide) (PPC- b-PVCA) membrane.
- Utilizing PPC as a sacrificial domain for nanopore generation via alkali sensitivity.
- Employing biomineralization of PVCA's catechol groups to form an inorganic layer.
Main Results:
- Achieved a ~200 nm thick membrane with 12 nm monodisperse through-pores.
- Demonstrated superhydrophilicity, enhanced mechanical stability, and fouling resistance.
- Exhibited high water flow (114 L m⁻² h⁻¹ bar⁻¹) and effective nanoparticle size fractionation.
Conclusions:
- The bioinspired BCP strategy yields a robust organic-mineral composite membrane.
- This platform shows promise for filtration, catalysis, and drug delivery applications.
- The combination of superhydrophilicity, mechanical strength, and anti-fouling properties is advantageous.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
02:34Water and Mineral Acquisition
35.7K
Specialized tissues in plant roots have evolved to capture water, minerals, and some ions from the soil. Roots exhibit a variety of branching patterns that facilitate this process. The outermost root cells have specialized structures called root hairs that increase the root surface, thus increasing soil contact. Water can passively cross into roots, as the concentration of water in the soil is higher than that of the root tissue. Minerals, in contrast, are actively transported into root cells.
35.7K
01:24Characteristics and Nomenclature of Copolymers
3.3K
Copolymers are the products obtained from the polymerization of multiple monomer species. So, in a polymer chain itself, there can be multiple repeating units that come from different monomers. The process of synthesizing a polymer from different monomer species is called copolymerization. When two monomers are involved, the polymer is known as a bipolymer. Polymers with three and four monomers are termed terpolymers and quaterpolymers, respectively. Figure 1 depicts the copolymerization of...
3.3K
01:26Minerals
1.3K
Minerals are essential nutrients that the human body needs in small amounts to work properly. They play a vital role in many bodily functions, such as building strong bones and transmitting nerve impulses. Some minerals are needed for hormone production or to maintain a normal heartbeat. Major minerals include calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, sodium, chlorine, and magnesium, while trace minerals include iron, manganese, copper, iodine, zinc, cobalt, fluoride, and selenium.
Major...
Major...
1.3K
01:22Block Diagram Reduction
561
The process of deriving the transfer function of a control system often involves reducing its block diagram to a single block. This simplification can be achieved through a series of strategic operations, including relocating branch points and comparators. These operations preserve the overall function of the system while allowing for easier manipulation and combination of blocks.
The first step in this process is the identification and relocation of a branch point. A branch point, where a...
The first step in this process is the identification and relocation of a branch point. A branch point, where a...
561
01:25Elements of Block Diagrams
704
Block diagrams serve as a visual representation of the input-output relationships within a system. An illustrative example is a heating system, where the set temperature activates the furnace to warm the room to the desired level. Block diagrams are versatile, modeling linear systems through Laplace transform variables and nonlinear systems using time domain variables.
A block diagram typically includes essential elements such as comparators, blocks, and feedback loops. Each of these elements...
A block diagram typically includes essential elements such as comparators, blocks, and feedback loops. Each of these elements...
704
01:31Essential Minerals for Bone Health
6.4K
The minerals contained in all of the food we consume are essential for our organ systems. However, certain essential minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, and fluoride, largely affect bone health.
Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium is a critical component of bones, especially in the form of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. Since the body cannot make calcium, it must be obtained from the diet. However, calcium cannot be absorbed from the small intestine without...
Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium is a critical component of bones, especially in the form of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. Since the body cannot make calcium, it must be obtained from the diet. However, calcium cannot be absorbed from the small intestine without...
6.4K