Optimization of Developed TiO2 NWs-Fe2O3 Modified PES Membranes for Efficient NBB Dye Removal

Abstract

Current work investigates the fabrication and performance of nanocomposite membranes, modified with varying concentrations of hybrid nanostructures comprising titanium nanowires coated with iron nanoparticles (TiO2 NWs-Fe2O3), for the removal of Naphthol Blue Black (NBB) dye from industrial wastewater. A series of analytical tools were employed to confirm the successful modification including scanning electron microscopy and EDX analysis, porosity and hydrophilicity measurements, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-Ray Diffraction. The incorporation of TiO2 NWs-Fe2O3 has enhanced membrane performance significantly by increasing the PWF and improving dye retention rates of nanocomposite membranes. At 0.7 g of nanostructure content, the modified membrane (M8) achieved a PWF of 93 L/m2·h and NBB dye rejection of over 98%. The flux recovery ratio (FRR) analysis disclosed improved antifouling properties, with the M8 membrane demonstrating a 73.4% FRR. This study confirms the potential of TiO2 NWs-Fe2O3-modified membranes in enhancing water treatment processes, offering a promising solution for industrial wastewater treatment. These outstanding results highlight the potential of the novel PES-TiO2 NWs-Fe2O3 membranes for dye removal and present adequate guidance for the modification of membrane physical properties in the field of wastewater treatment.