Optimizing the electrospinning conditions of polysulfone membranes for water microfiltration applications

Abstract

Abstract 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 μm 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. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry