Lipids and Proteins Differentiation in Membrane Fouling Using Heavy Metal Staining and Electron Microscopy at Cryogenic Temperatures

The detailed characterization of fouling in membranes is essential to understand any observed improvement or reduction on filtration performance. Electron microscopy allows detailed structural characterization, and its combination with labeling techniques, using electron-dense probes, typically allows for the differentiation of biomolecules. Developing specific protocols that allow for differentiation of biomolecules in membrane fouling by electron microscopy is a major challenge due to both as follows: the necessity to preserve the native state of fouled membranes upon real filtration conditions as well as the inability of the electron-dense probes to penetrate the membranes once they have been fouled. In this study, we present the development of a heavy metal staining technique for identification and differentiation of biomolecules in membrane fouling, which is compatible with cryofixation methods. A general contrast enhancement of biomolecules and fouling is achieved. Our observations indicate a strong interaction between biomolecules: A tendency of proteins, both in solution as well as in the fouling, to surround the lipids is observed. Using transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy at cryogenic conditions, cryo-SEM, in combination with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, the spatial distribution of proteins and lipids within fouling is shown and the role of proteins in fouling discussed.

Automated summary

Detailed structural characterization of fouling in membranes is crucial for understanding filtration performance. Electron microscopy combined with labeling techniques can differentiate biomolecules, but specific protocols for differentiating biomolecules in fouled membranes are challenging due to the need for preserving membrane state and the inability of probes to penetrate fouled membranes. This study presents a heavy metal staining technique compatible with cryofixation to identify and differentiate biomolecules in fouling. The technique enhances contrast and reveals the strong interaction between proteins and lipids in fouling.