Multifunctional poly(ionic liquid)/graphitic carbon nitride membranes: visible light-driven photodegradation coupled...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Polymer membranes are crucial for separation and purification.
• Poly(ionic liquids) (PILs) are emerging as advanced membrane materials.
• Nanoparticle incorporation enhances membrane functionality for water treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) embedded poly(ionic liquid) (PIL) nanocomposite membranes.
• To evaluate the structural, filtration, and surface properties of these membranes.
• To assess their photocatalytic performance and reusability for water purification under visible light.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of g-CN embedded PIL nanocomposite membranes via UV curing.
• Characterization of membrane properties (structural, filtration, surface).
• Evaluation of photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and sulfadiazine under visible light in static and continuous flow conditions.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated g-CN embedded PIL nanocomposite membranes.
• Demonstrated efficient photocatalytic degradation of model pollutants (methylene blue, sulfadiazine) under visible light.
• Showcased reusability and potential for simultaneous filtration, degradation, and antifouling in a continuous flow system.

Conclusions:

• g-CN embedded PIL nanocomposite membranes are effective for visible-light-driven water purification.
• These membranes offer a promising solution for advanced environmental remediation and water treatment applications.
• The developed membranes exhibit excellent reusability and antifouling properties.