Synthesis and characterization of silver decorated polysulfone/cellulose acetate hybrid ultrafiltration membranes using functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles

Abstract

Amine functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized via surface reaction with 3-Aminopropyl triethoxysilane. These nanoparticles were added to polysulfone and cellulose acetate blend casting solutions in 1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone to form hybrid membranes by phase inversion. The amine groups on the surface of the membranes were used as absorption sites for silver nanoparticles. The obtained membranes were characterized using Fourier Transform Infra Red spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. Water uptake studies and contact angle measurements were done to evaluate hydrophilicity of the membranes. Pure water flux studies of the membrane were carried out in a dead end filtration unit. Rejection and antifouling studies were carried out using bovine serum albumin as a model protein. The hybrid membranes exhibited better permeability and fouling resistance. The hybrid membranes with silver decoration on the surface showed microbial resistance. 2017 Desalination Publications. All rights reserved.