Enhanced antifouling and surface properties of polymeric membrane via surface modification for treatment of oily wastewater

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) is a widely used ultrafiltration (UF) membrane material due to its advantages over other conventional polymers. However, its hydrophobic nature limits its applicability i.e. anti-fouling property and efficacy of water permeability is very low. In this study, to obtain high rejection and permeation, surface porosity and good pore structure, PAN membranes are prepared by physically blending with bentonite inorganic fillers to improve its hydrophilicity. The membranes are prepared via phase inversion method and characterized using SEM, and ATR-FTIR to evaluate the surface morphology and to analyze the effect of the presence of bentonite particles in varied concentrations on the membrane properties. The performance of the membranes is studied through Pure Water Flux (PWF), and anti fouling property. Then, the membrane efficiency is measured via oily feed solution. Amongst prepared membranes, the composition of PAN (15 wt%), NMP (84.5 wt%) and bentonite (0.5 wt%) gives maximum removal of oil with increased porosity, equilibrium water content (EWC), PWF and hydrophilicity.