Response Surface Methodology Modeling Correlation of Polymer Composite Carbon Nanotubes/Chitosan Nanofiltration Membranes for Water Desalination

Quick population growth and worldwide industrialization is creating serious issues in accessing safe drinking water, which necessitates the exploration of operative and economical water treatment methods. This study aims to develop chitosan and carbon membranes via the phase inversion method that have effective salt wt % chitosan, PES-0.1 wt % CNTs, and PES-0.1 wt % CNT/ chitosan composites, were fabricated and characterized. The composition, surface texture, and cross-sectional microstructures of the synthesized membranes were investigated by using attenuated total croscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The chitosan/MWNTs containing a PES membrane showed excellent water flux and salt rejection. This composite membrane registered a maximum water flux of 80.26 L/m2 center dot h and similar to 95.5% salt rejection at 40 degrees C and 4 kg/cm2 of feed water pressure, as validated by ANOVA analysis. Response surface methodology showed a complete fit for the experimental analysis. This study suggests that the designed membrane can be used in practice to treat brackish water.

Automated summary

Quick population growth and industrialization have caused problems in accessing safe drinking water. This study aims to develop chitosan and carbon membranes for effective salt removal. These membranes were fabricated and characterized, and the chitosan/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) membrane showed excellent water flux and salt rejection. The designed membrane can be used in treating brackish water.