Chitosan Membranes for Reverse Osmosis Application

Abstract

Alkali resistant reverse osmosis membranes were fabricated by spreading solutions of chitosan, a poly-N-acetyl glucosamine, in 2.0% acetic acid on a glass plate. The membrane had a flux rate of 1.67 ± 10-3 cm3/cm2/sec and a salt rejection capability of 78.8% with 0.2% NaCl at 680 psi. Addition of 40% polyethylene glycol to the membrane casting solution increased permeability, while 10% chloromethyl oxirane improved durability of the membranes.