Preparation of a novel antifouling mixed matrix PES membrane by embedding graphene oxide nanoplates

A novel polyethersulfone (PES) mixed matrix nanofiltration membrane containing graphene oxide (GO) nanoplates was prepared via the phase inversion method. The effect of the embedded nanosheet on the morphology and performance of the fabricated new membranes was investigated in terms of pure water flux, dye removal and fouling parameters. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), water contact angle and porosity measurements were employed to characterize the prepared membranes. FT-IR spectra of the graphene oxide nanoplates revealed that the hydroxyl and carboxylic acid groups are formed on the surface of the;,Yraphene oxide. The vvaler flux from the nanocomposile membranes improved significantly after addition of graphene oxide to the casling soluLion, due Lo the higher hyclrophiliciLy of the prepared membranes. The wafer contacL angle measuremen l. confirmed the increased hydrophilicily of the modified membranes. The morphology sLudies by SEM showed the wider finger -like pores of the GO incorporated membranes in comparison with those of the unfilled PES membrane. Evalualion of the nanofiltration performance was performed by invesLigating the reLention of Direct Red 16. ft was observed tha L the GO membranes have higher dye removal capacily than the unfilled PES. Fouling resistance of the membranes assessed by powder milk solution filtration revealed that 0.5 wt% GO membrane had the best antibiolouling property. In addition, the results showed that the 0.5 wt% GO membrane had the highest mean pore radius, porosity, and water flux. The prepared GO nanocomposite membrane showed noteworthy reusability during filtration. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.