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Evaluation of Ceramic Membrane Filtration for Alternatives to Microplastics in Cosmetic Formulations Using FlowCam
Seung Yeon Kim1, Soyoun Kim1, Chanhyuk Park1
1Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea.
Membranes
|January 24, 2025
Summary
Cornstarch shows higher removal efficiency than silica in ceramic membrane filtration due to aggregation. However, cornstarch may cause faster membrane fouling, unlike stable silica particles.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Cosmetics industry faces regulations driving adoption of alternative microplastics.
- Silica powder and cornstarch are common microplastic alternatives.
- Ceramic membrane filtration is a potential treatment method.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare treatment performance of silica and cornstarch using ceramic membrane filtration.
- Analyze particle behavior and filtration efficiency.
- Investigate the impact of morphology on filtration and fouling.
Main Methods:
- Bench-scale crossflow filtration experiments with alumina ceramic membranes.
- Flow imaging microscopy (FlowCam) for particle analysis.
- Comparative analysis of particle morphology, transport, and retention.
Main Results:
- Cornstarch removal efficiency was 82%, higher than silica's 72%.
- Cornstarch's aggregation tendency led to higher removal but potential for faster fouling.
- Silica particles maintained shape and structural integrity, resulting in less fouling.
- FlowCam revealed cornstarch particle swelling and aggregation, while silica remained stable.
Conclusions:
- Morphological properties significantly influence microplastic alternative filtration behavior.
- Cornstarch's aggregation aids removal but increases fouling risk.
- Silica offers a more stable alternative with less fouling potential.
