PVDF/MOFs mixed matrix ultrafiltration membrane for efficient water treatment

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Membrane Technology

Background:

• Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes offer excellent mechanical and chemical properties for separation.
• However, PVDF's inherent hydrophobicity limits water permeability and causes membrane fouling.
• Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising for membrane modification due to their tunable porosity and surface area.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the performance of PVDF ultrafiltration (UF) membranes.
• To investigate the effect of MIL-53(Al) incorporation on membrane properties and separation efficiency.
• To develop PVDF membranes with improved hydrophilicity, permeability, and antifouling characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Blending MIL-53(Al) with PVDF casting solution.
• Fabrication of ultrafiltration membranes using a phase separation technique.
• Characterization of membrane surface properties, microstructure, and separation performance.

Main Results:

• Incorporation of MIL-53(Al) increased membrane hydrophilicity, porosity, and average pore size.
• Optimal performance was achieved with 5 wt% MIL-53(Al), yielding a pure water permeability of 43.60 L m⁻² h⁻¹ bar⁻¹.
• The modified membranes demonstrated high Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) rejection (82.09%) and excellent antifouling properties.

Conclusions:

• MIL-53(Al) is an effective additive for enhancing PVDF membrane performance.
• The developed MIL-53(Al)/PVDF membranes offer a promising solution for efficient and durable water treatment.
• The study highlights the potential of MOF-modified membranes for addressing membrane fouling and low permeability issues.