A new concept of MOF-based PMM by modification of conventional dense film casting method: Significant impact on the performance of FO process

The fabrication methods of FO membranes are always ready for a revolution. Here we present an efficient strategy to fabricate a novel integral thin-film based porous matrix membrane (TF-PMM). The goal of this study is to fabricate a TF-PMM by modifying conventional dense film casting method, using magnetic water-unstable MOFs as pore former. The MOF and TF-PMMs were characterized by FTIR, TGA, PXRD, DLS, FESEM, ImageJ software, contact angle, ICP, and FO experiments. The effect of structure parameters (S) on the performance of the TF-PMM was also investigated. Based on experimental results, the type of polymer, type of solvent, type of MOF, concentration of polymer solutions, MOF loading (wt.%), the particle size of MOF, drying temperature, and a suitable activation process have a direct effect on the quality of TF-PMM. The TF-PMM represents a remarkable water flux of about 117 and 98 L/m(2).h for Caspian seawater desalination and orange juice concentration, while the FO water flux for DI water as the feed solution was approximately 141 L/m(2).h. Also, in comparison with many recent FO membranes, the TF-PMM exhibited high perm-selectivity. The results of membrane cleaning showed the excellent potential of reusing the TF-PMM with the continuous cleaning process.