Synthesis and optimization of PES‐Fe₃O₄ mixed matrix nanocomposite membrane: Application studies in water purification

Abstract

A mixed matrix nanocomposite membrane comprising of polyethersulfone (PES) and nano Fe 3 O 4 particles was synthesised with an aim to develop a membrane with superior ability to high water flux while maintaining salt rejection efficiency. The study focused on optimizing the effect of different percentages of nano Fe 3 O 4 particles addition on the membrane pure water flux, and rejection of both the NaCl and MgSO 4 . The results showed that the PES nanocomposite membrane with 15% Fe 3 O 4 exhibited the highest pure water flux, while the highest rejection of NaCl and MgSO 4 belonged to the PES‐10% Fe 3 O 4 . The rejection sequence of PES‐10% Fe 3 O 4 membrane was 68% and 82%, respectively. Also it was observed that nano Fe 3 O 4 particles improved membrane hydrophilicity, and helped to construct a membrane with desire surface and cross‐section morphology. POLYM. COMPOS., 34:1870–1877, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers