Long-term control of membrane biofouling remains a challenge in membrane operation, despite the implementation of extensive feed water pretreatment, and membrane surface modification such as surface coating of less-adhesive polymers. In our study, silver loaded nano-zeolite were incorporated on the surface of membranes by either embedding them in a surface coating layer, or grafting them via covalent bond. The anti-biofouling performance of the membranes was evaluated by repeated exposure to Pseudomonas aeruginosa suspension and measuring bacterial growth in the suspension and on membrane surface. SEM and XPS results have shown successful incorporation of nano-zeolite in the polyvinyl alcohol surface coating on NF90 nanofiltration membrane. Both Ag+ and Ag(0) nanoparticles loaded in the nano-zeolite exhibited slow-release behavior and were able to sustain antimicrobial activity for four days with a approximate calculated loading of 4.3 �g Ag/cm2. On-going research aims at regenerating the depleted membrane by reloading silver to the coated nano-zeolite.

Regenerable antimicrobial activity in thin film composite membranes for sustainable control of membrane biofouling

245th National Meeting (2013)

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