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PVDF/PGMA Blend Membranes: NIPS-Driven Microstructure, Thermodynamic Miscibility, and Enhanced Wettability.
Md Azizul Hakim1, Md Mahadi Hasan1, Md Al-Mamun2,3
1Department of Chemistry, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh.
ACS Omega
|February 9, 2026
Summary
Novel poly-(vinylidene fluoride)/poly-(glycidyl methacrylate) blend membranes were created using NIPS. This process enhanced the electroactive β-phase content and improved membrane porosity and hydrophilicity for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Membrane Technology
Background:
- Poly-(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is a versatile polymer with applications in various fields.
- Controlling the crystalline phase and microstructure of PVDF is crucial for optimizing its performance.
- Nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) is a common method for fabricating polymer membranes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate novel PVDF/poly-(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) blend membranes.
- To investigate the miscibility and phase separation behavior of PVDF/PGMA blends.
- To explore the effect of PGMA incorporation on the PVDF crystalline phase, membrane microstructure, and surface properties.
Main Methods:
- Nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) process.
- Theoretical prediction using the Schneier equation.
- Comprehensive characterization including XRD, FTIR, DSC, and FESEM.
Main Results:
- PVDF/PGMA blends exhibit partial miscibility with a critical phase separation threshold around 37 vol % PGMA.
- NIPS process significantly enhanced the PVDF β-phase content, reaching up to 70%.
- PGMA incorporation increased membrane porosity and surface hydrophilicity.
Conclusions:
- The NIPS process effectively promotes PVDF crystallization into the electroactive β-phase.
- Blend composition allows tuning of membrane microstructure and properties.
- These PVDF/PGMA membranes show promise for functional and biomedical applications.
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