PVDF/RGO membranes and the potential of adsorption technology: rhodamine dye removal

Abstract

Due to the generation of difficult-to-separate waste by industrial and agricultural activities, the concern for preserving the environment and natural resources has gained significant attention in scientific discussions, as the increased concentration of these materials has impacted the entire food chain. In this perspective, the production of polymeric micro and nanofiber membranes for pollutant remediation has been extensively studied to mitigate these impacts. Using a solution blow spinning technique with a commercial airbrush, membranes with concentrations of 1%, 3%, and 5% by mass were created. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM/FEG) analysis revealed the presence of smooth fibers with an average diameter below 100 nm, along with some imperfections attributed to the higher concentration. Structural results confirmed the presence of Reduced Graphene Oxide (RGO) in the membranes. Adsorption tests showed that membranes with higher RGO content exhibited greater dye removal capacity within a 120-hour timeframe.