Multiscale Orientation Armoring Strategy to Heat-Resistant and High-Selectivity Nanofiber Membranes for Fireground...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Environmental Engineering

Background:

• High-temperature fire scenarios pose significant respiratory risks due to high concentrations of particulate matter (PM) and harmful gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2).
• Existing respiratory protective equipment may not offer sufficient long-term efficiency or heat resistance for demanding rescue operations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop advanced, heat-resistant nanofiber membranes for efficient removal of gases and PM in high-temperature environments.
• To enhance the protective capabilities of membranes for rescue personnel operating in hazardous conditions.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of multiscale orientation armored poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanofiber membranes using high-voltage E-field and high-speed stretching.
• In situ assembly of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) onto nanofiber surfaces for enhanced gas adsorption.
• Characterization of membrane properties including specific surface area, surface potential, gas adsorption capacities, and particulate filtration efficiencies.

Main Results:

• The developed multiscale orientation armored PLA (MSOA-PLA) membranes achieved a specific surface area of 194.5 m²/g and a surface potential of approximately 8 kV.
• Demonstrated high adsorption capacities for CO2 (1.87 mmol/g) and SO2 (8.20 mmol/g).
• Achieved excellent filtration efficiencies for PM0.3 (99.12%) and PM2.5 (99.95%) at 32 L/min, maintaining 99.15% efficiency at 120 °C.

Conclusions:

• The MSOA-PLA membranes exhibit remarkable heat resistance and high efficiency in removing harmful gases and particulate matter.
• This technology presents a viable strategy for creating highly protective membrane filters suitable for harsh working environments, enhancing safety for rescue personnel.