Fabrication of Polysulfone/ZnO Membrane: Influence of ZnO Nanoparticles on Membrane Characteristics

A mixed matrix membrane consisting of a polysulfone and nano-ZnO particles has been fabricated by a combination of solution dispersion blending and phase-inversion method. The study is focused on the influence of ZnO on membrane morphology, surface roughness, and hydrophilicity, which were investigated through the methods of scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and contact angle meter, respectively. In addition, the changes in membrane characteristics with the addition nano-ZnO particles were examined by pure water flux, water content and porosity, and salts rejection including NaCl and MgSO4. From the results, it was revealed that nano-ZnO particles constructed a membrane having more hydrophilic, smooth, and tightly packed surface, which offered a high flux and an effective permeability barrier. Moreover, it was observed that nano-ZnO particles produced spongy a membrane with uniform and well-interconnecting pores. (c) 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Technol 2013, 32, 21369; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/adv.21369