Life Cycle Assessment of Electrospun Cellulose-Based Nanocomposite Membrane Fabrication

Abstract

Polymer nanocomposite membrane is an innovative and promising approach with a broad spectrum of potential applications in filtration processes. It is used to selectively separate molecules and ions. A comprehensive understanding of its environmental impacts, covering the life cycle of the used materials and the fabrication process, is crucial for its long-term sustainable success. This research aims to elaborate and implement a decision-making tool for greener membrane fabrication process. The environmental impacts of synthesizing one batch of Nanocomposite cellulose nanofibrils/cellulose acetate membrane using 50 gr polymer dope solution by electrospinning technique was determined based on a life cycle assessment methodology. The eco-sufficiency and sustainability of the electrospinning method were evaluated through a cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) adopting the Cumulative Energy Demand (CED), and IMPACT2002+ impact assessment methods. According to CED assessment, the majority of energy consumed during electrospun membrane synthesis, amounting to 382 MJ, was consumed by the production of cellulose nanofibers. This is related to nonrenewable fossil energy consumed in Ethanol production. As per IMPACT2002+ impact assessment, cellulose acetate and cellulose nanofiber manufacturing, and medium voltage electricity are the main contributors to the overall midpoint environmental effects.