The effect of functionalized MWCNT and SDS on the characteristic and performance of PAN ultrafiltration membrane

In this study, the influence of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube (F-MWCNT), sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) on the characteristic and performance of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) membrane was studied. The mixed matrix membranes were prepared via solution blending and phase inversion methods. MWCNTs were acidified and then functionalized by amino group using microwave. Three dosage of F-MWCNT, i.e. 0.5, 1 and 2 wt.%, and two dosage of SDS, i.e. 2.5 and 5 wt.%, were used to prepare mixed matrix membranes. The as-prepared membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angle, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The hydrophilicity and pure water flux increased with addition of both additives. Separation performance of Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated in three different pHs (5, 7 and 9). The results showed that both additives enhanced performance parameters of pure PAN membrane. From the results it is found that 0.5 wt.% of F-MWCNT and 2.5 wt.% of SDS, are the optimum values to achieve maximum permeate flux and BSA rejection, respectively.