Mhlanga S.D., Phao N., Nxumalo E.N., Mamba B.B.
University of Johannesburg, ZA
Keywords: nanostructed blend membranes, nitrogen doped carbon nanotubes, silver, water treatment
The presentation presents blend membranes of polyethersulfone containing Ag nanoparticles dispersed on N-doped carbon nanotubes (N-CNTs). The blend membranes were checked for any improved properties and tested for their efficacy in removing model pollutants from water. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) results revealed a reduction in surface roughness from 23.9 to 12.7 nm in the N-CNT/PES blend membranes. The mechanical stability increased from 3.7 to 4.4 MPa with a small addition of N-CNTs. Furthermore, the performance studies using a cross-flow system showed a 46% increase in pure water flux and a 13% increase in rejections for N-CNT blend PES membranes as compared to the pristine PES membrane (Figure 2). Complete ccharacterization of the Ag/N-CNTs and the blend membranes was performed by SEM, TEM, Zeta potential, TGA, FTIR, DSC, EDS, MWCO, AFM and contact angle measurements. A study of the fouling capacity of the membranes was studied using humic acid.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: Technical Proceedings of the 2013 Clean Technology Conference and Trade Show
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 161 - 164
Industry sector: Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Water Technologies
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0594-7