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Highly Robust Laser-Induced Graphene (LIG) Ultrafiltration Membrane with a Stable Microporous Structure
Amit K Thakur1, Hasib Mahbub1, Fouzia Hasan Nowrin1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, 807 Canton Avenue, Lubbock, Texas79409, United States.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|October 6, 2022
Summary
We developed a robust laser-induced graphene (LIG) membrane for ultrafiltration (UF) water treatment. This electroconductive membrane shows significantly enhanced flux and separation efficiency for cleaner water.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Laser-induced graphene (LIG) shows promise for water treatment.
- Developing robust membranes with tailored properties is crucial for ultrafiltration (UF).
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate mechanically robust, electroconductive LIG membranes for UF applications.
- To tailor the separation properties of LIG membranes for efficient water treatment.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of LIG membranes by lasing poly(ether sulfone) (PES) membrane supports.
- Utilizing glycerol treatment to preserve membrane structure and nanoscale features during fabrication.
- Characterization of membrane performance, including flux and bovine serum albumin (BSA) rejection.
Main Results:
- The PES (B)-LIG-HP membrane exhibited 4 times higher flux (865 LMH) compared to control PES membranes.
- Achieved 90.9% BSA rejection, indicating effective separation.
- LIG membranes demonstrated high hydrophilicity, mechanical stability, and chemical resistance.
Conclusions:
- Glycerol-assisted LIG membrane fabrication yields robust, electroconductive membranes with enhanced UF performance.
- These LIG membranes offer excellent permeance and separation efficiency for advanced water treatment.
- The developed LIG membranes hold significant potential for designing functional and high-performance water purification systems.
