Introduction
The contamination of water presents a significant environmental challenge that demands urgent attention. In response to this issue, the development of novel technologies for water purification has become paramount from an environmental standpoint. One promising technology that has garnered considerable interest is the use of nanocomposite membranes, which are designed to enhance the separation capabilities of standard polymeric membranes.
Keywords
Nanoparticles, Polymer nanocomposites, Nanofiltration, Antifouling, Mechanical stability
Research Details
Polymer nanocomposite membranes consist of nanofillers embedded in a polymeric matrix, thus functionalizing the membrane and improving its filtration properties. By incorporating nanoparticles into the polymer matrix, it is aimed to enhance the mechanical properties, barrier processes, photocatalytic degradation ability, and antifouling properties of the membranes.
In our research, we have focused on investigating various types of polymers and nanoparticles for various applications. The primary polymers under study are polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), cellulose acetate (CA), and Polyethersulfone (PES), each offering unique advantages in specific applications. In conjunction with these polymers, we have explored using silver nanoparticles, nanoclay and nanoclay composites, carbon nanotubes, and graphene oxide as nanofillers for membrane functionalization. Polymeric nanocomposites membranes were prepared using phase inversion methods. To ensure the effectiveness and integrity of the developed membranes systems, they were extensively characterized using various analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, contact angle measurements, tensile tests, and antibacterial tests. Furthermore, the membrane's performance, in terms of flux and rejection, were thoroughly evaluated using a dead-end cell. These advanced membrane systems have demonstrated the capacity to remove a diverse range of contaminants from water, including salts, dyes, and organic materials. This technology holds great promise for addressing the pressing issue of water contamination and advancing environmental sustainability.
Impact and Significance
- Environmental protection: Our primary goal is to effectively remove pollutants from water and wastewater, safeguarding the ecosystem and preventing soil and water contamination
- Wastewater recycling and reuse: Our implementation of effective nanofiltration will not only facilitate the recycling and reuse of wastewater but also bring significant benefits to the industrial and agricultural sectors.
- Cost-effectiveness: We are enhancing membranes' mechanical and antifouling properties to increase their longevity, significantly lowering the costs associated with regular maintenance and replacement of membrane systems.
- Reduction of chemical use in treatment: Our efficient nanofiltration systems aim to reduce the dependency on additional chemical treatment, promoting a more environmentally friendly and sustainable approach.
Key Publication
Abu-Zurayk, R., Alnairat, N., Bozeya, A., Khalaf, A., & Abu-Dalo, D. (2024). Enhanced Properties of PVDF Membranes Using Green Ag-Nanoclay Composite Nanoarchitectonics. Materials Research Express. https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/2053-1591/ad4101 - Abu-Zurayk, R., Alnairat, N., Khalaf, A., Ibrahim, A. A., & Halaweh, G. (2023). Cellulose acetate membranes: Fouling types and antifouling strategies—A brief review. Processes, 11(2), 489. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9717/11/2/489 - Fontananova, E., Tocci, E., Abu-Zurayk, R., Grosso, V., Meringolo, C., Muzzi, C., ... & Di Profio, G.. An environmental-friendly electrostatically driven method for preparing graphene oxide composite membranes with amazing stability in aqueous solutions. Journal of Membrane Science, 655, 120587, 2022 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376738822003337?via%3Dihub - Alnairat, N.; Abu Dalo, M.; Abu-Zurayk, R.; Abu Mallouh, S.; Odeh, F.; Al Bawab, A. Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles as an Effective Antibiofouling Material for Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) Ultrafiltration Membrane. Polymers, Polymers, 13, 3683, 2021 https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/13/21/3683
Collaborative Partners
Nanotechnology Institute- JUST - Institute on Membrane Technology of the National Research Council (ITM-CNR), Italy
contact Details
Rund Abu-Zurayk
Associate Researcher- Hamdi Mango Center for Scientific Researchr.abuzuaryk@ju.edu.jo