Hydrophilic polymeric membranes were prepared by vapour-induced phase separation of polysulfone/3-(N,N-Dimethylmyristylammonio)propane-sulfonate blends. Compared to surface modification processes, this method does not involve supplementary unit operation and is cheaper. Yet, the combination blending method /VIPS has not been reported. XPS analysis revealed successful polymer/additive interactions. SEM observations highlighted that the additive acts as a pore-former. Also, hydrophilicity was increased since the polar head groups of the zwitterions improve affinity for water at the membrane/air interface. On-going tests concern (i) filtration of protein solutions, (ii) porosity measurements and (iii) protein adsorption assays, to evaluate the effect of additive on membranes' low-fouling properties. These new membranes could possibly be applied in microfiltration water treatment processes for which hydrophilic matrices are needed, to avoid hydrophobic-hydrophobic interactions between membranes and macromolecules contained in feed.

Hydrophilic polymeric membranes prepared by vapour-induced phase separation of polysulfone/3-(N,N-dimethylmyristylammonio)propane-sulfonate blends

243rd National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.