Mixed matrix hollow fiber membranes consisted of polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) and various amounts of TiO2 were fabricated and characterized. The assembled membrane modules were then applied in membrane algal bioreactors (MBR) for the high-density algal growth. Microalgae species Chlorella Vulgaris was cultivated in the MBR system fed with artificial wastewater, with solid residence time (SRT) of 25 days. The MBR reached a high algal concentration (~2500 mg/L COD) with simultaneous removal of phosphorus (average 78%) and nitrogen (average 34%). Total resistance of TiO2-embedded membranes was 65% lower than those without TiO2 during 90 days of operation. The anti-fouling characteristics of membranes were evaluated based on intrinsic, reversible, and irreversible resistances, and the scanning electron spectroscopy (SEM) study. This research demonstrates that embedding TiO2 into the PVDF membranes resulted in membranes with better antifouling properties and performance in algal MBR systems.

Fabrication and application of mixed matrix TiO<sub>2</sub>-PVDF membranes in algal MBR systems

248th National Meeting (2014)

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Fabrication and application of mixed matrix TiO2-PVDF membranes in algal MBR systems

Fabrication and application of mixed matrix TiO₂-PVDF membranes in algal MBR systems