Synthesis and Characterisation of Self-Cleaning TiO[sub.2]/PES Mixed Matrix Membranes in the Removal of Humic Acid

• Published in: Membranes (Basel) Vol. 13; no. 4
• Main Authors: Poon, Yan Kee, Enche Ab Rahim, Siti Ka, Ng, Qi Hwa, Hoo, Peng Yong, Abdullah, Nur Yasmin, Nasib, Amira, Abdullah, Norazharuddin Shah
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 01.03.2023
• Subjects: Humic acid; Malaysia; Germany
• ISSN: 2077-0375; 2077-0375
• DOI: 10.3390/membranes13040373

Membrane application is widespread in water filtration to remove natural organic matter (NOM), especially humic acid. However, there is a significant concern in membrane filtration, which is fouling, which will cause a reduction in the membrane life span, a high energy requirement, and a loss in product quality. Therefore, the effect of a TiO[sub.2]/PES mixed matrix membrane on different concentrations of TiO[sub.2] photocatalyst and different durations of UV irradiation was studied in removing humic acid to determine the anti-fouling and self-cleaning effects. The TiO[sub.2] photocatalyst and TiO[sub.2]/PES mixed matrix membrane synthesised were characterised using attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), contact angle, and porosity. The performances of TiO[sub.2]/PES membranes of 0 wt.%, 1 wt.%, 3 wt.%, and 5 wt.% were evaluated via a cross-flow filtration system regarding anti-fouling and self-cleaning effects. After that, all the membranes were irradiated under UV for either 2, 10, or 20 min. A TiO[sub.2]/PES mixed matrix membrane of 3 wt.% was proved to have the best anti-fouling and self-cleaning effect with improved hydrophilicity. The optimum duration for UV irradiation of the TiO[sub.2]/PES mixed matrix membrane was 20 min. Furthermore, the fouling behaviour of mixed matrix membranes was fitted to the intermediate blocking model. Adding TiO[sub.2] photocatalyst into the PES membrane enhanced the anti-fouling and self-cleaning properties.