Polymer Nano-Composite Membranes

Abstract

desalination, fuel cell etc. The ultimate properties of a polymeric nano-composite membrane are very much dependent on the dispersion and distribution (Figure 1) of the reinforcing nano-filler in the continuous phase, as well as interfacial interaction between the surface of nano-scale filler and polymer matrix [3]. By incorporating nano-size fillers in the polymer solution prior to the membrane fabrication, one can change solution rheology, alter phase inversion and control membrane morphology. Prospective nano-fillers for polymer nano-composite membrane fabrication are carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, TiO 2 , SiO 2 , Mg(OH) 2 , Al 2 O 3 , ZnO, clay etc. Surprising enhancement of both membrane permeability, and selectivity for molecular species during separation could be achieved by reinforcing nanofillers in the polymer membrane matrix. The highly favorable property enhancement in terms of flux and selectivity for polymer nano-composite membrane in contrast to the conventional filler reinforced polymer membrane is most likely due to an extra region at the nanofillers polymer interface and/or disruption of polymer chain packing as a result of substantial increase of free volume size through which molecular transport would occurs in the dense nano-composite membrane matrix [6,7]. Thus, both gas separation as well as large-scale water treatment of commercial and environmental importance could be benefited by using polymer nano-composite membrane. Conclusions: Challenges and Opportunities With the rapid increase of global population and subsequent needs for energy, fresh water and waste water treatment, the application of Abstract Nanoscale materials are of fundamental interest to the material scientists. The property of bulk polymeric material which can change by molecular manipulation in the nano scale region in contrast to the structural modification by chemical reaction or physical means could have excellent potential for advanced membrane separation applications.