Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) hollow fibers modified by hydrophilic crosslinking network (HCN) for robust resistance to fouling and harsh chemical cleaning

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) hollow fibers are considered as robust membranes for wastewater treatment due to its comprehensive chemical, thermal and mechanical stability. However, the intrinsic strong hydrophobicity impeded its application because of severe organic matter fouling. Therefore, hydrophilic PTFE hollow fiber membrane especially with robust resistance to chemical washing is highly desirable. Herein, we feasibly enhance the chemical washing resistance of hydrophilic PTFE hollow fiber membrane via the interface impregnation and crosslinking of poly (vinylpyrrolidone-vinyltriethoxysilane) (P (VP-VTES)). The hydrophilic crosslinking network (HCN) endowed PTFE membrane with better resistance to BSA, HA and soybean oil fouling compared to ethanol pre-wetted PTFE membrane. More importantly, the HCN modified membrane maintains its hydrophilic and chemical stability after strong acidic (pH = 2), alkaline (pH = 12) and oxidization artificial accelerated cleaning (2000 ppm NaClO) for 2 weeks. Overall, the facile preparation and excellent performance of robust hydrophilic PTFE membrane highlights its great potential in treating highly contaminated wastewater.