High-fluxPVDF/PVPnanocomposite ultrafiltration membrane incorporated with graphene oxide nanoribbones with improved antifouling properties

A novel polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanocomposite membrane containing graphene oxide nanoribbones (GONRs) as a new nanofiller and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as pore former agent was prepared via phase inversion method. GONRs were prepared by oxidative unzipping of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) via chemical approach. Chemical vapor deposition method was used to synthesis MWCNTs. The effects of adding GONRs and PVP into the casting solution on morphology, hydrophilicity and pure water flux (PWF) of the prepared nanocomposite membranes were explored. Antifouling experiments were also performed. It was found that compared to the neat PVDF membrane, PWF of the PVDF/PVP, PVDF/(0.5GONRs) and PVDF/(0.5GONRs)/PVP membranes were improved 80%, 44.9%, and 241.6%, respectively. The obtained results showed that GONRs and PVP exhibit synergistic effects in controlling the membrane properties. This work shows that GONRs can be suitable as nanofiller for preparation of high performance PVDF ultrafiltration membranes with improved antifouling properties.

Automated summary

A novel PVDF nanocomposite membrane containing GONRs and PVP was prepared, showing synergistic effects in improving membrane properties such as PWF and antifouling performance. GONRs proved to be a suitable nanofiller for high performance ultrafiltration membranes.