Green and Non‐Conventional Materials for Membrane Synthesis: A Review

Abstract Membrane separation has been an upgrade in our quest for eco‐friendly processes because of its minimal energy usage and lesser waste generation. However, the most widely used membranes are polymeric membranes. Most of these membranes are non‐biodegradable and are replaced after deterioration/fouling and then discarded. Dumping without treatment on a large scale is a significant environmental problem. Green polymers only make up a limited percentage of all the new materials that are reported every year. We require more research in developing renewable, inexpensive membranes from waste materials to ensure progress with the least toll on the environment. Several reported green methods can partially achieve green synthesis. This ensures the least use of non‐biodegradable polymers in membranes. This review will emphasize the exploration of more natural materials given the target is to fabricate membranes in a way, where both raw material and membrane preparation are green.