Optimizing the electrospinning conditions of polysulfone membranes for water microfiltration applications

Polysulfone (PSU) is a popular material in microfiltration applications. In this study, the preparation of PSU membranes via electrospinning technology was investigated and optimized. Solutions with three different concentrations (15, 20 and 25 wt%) of PSU in dimethylformamide were electrospun at three different feed rates (1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 mL h(-1)) and voltages (12.5, 15 and 18 kV). The morphologies of the samples were studied using SEM. The results showed that the samples prepared from a 15 wt% solution concentration have beads-on-string morphologies. As the solution concentration is increased to 20 and 25 wt%, the beads disappear and uniform fibers with average diameters ranging from 0.876 to 2.078 mu m depending on the voltage and the feed rate are obtained. The optimum electrospinning conditions for the highest wettability with minimum operating pressure were predicted to be a solution concentration of 25 wt%, a feed rate of 3.5 mL h(-1) and a voltage of 18 kV. The prediction was verified by contact angle test measurements and filtration experiments. (c) 2019 Society of Chemical Industry