Application of a Ti3C2TX MXene-Coated Membrane for Removal of Selected Natural Organic Matter and Pharmaceuticals

Ti3C2TX MXene was used for surface modification of membranes by vacuum-assisted filtration. Owing to its higher hydrophilicity, negatively charged surface, and lower molecular weight cutoff, the Ti3C2TX MXene-coated membrane showed great performance for the treatment of organic contaminants. Humic acid (HA)/tannic acid mixtures were selected as the target natural organic matter (NOM). Owing to weakened hydrophobic interaction and improved size exclusion upon using Ti3C2TX MXene, it was difficult for HA to pass through the membrane. Membrane performance was tested for two different charged pharmaceuticals (amitriptyline and ibuprofen) under three pH conditions. The water permeabilities of pure water and both pharmaceuticals showed similar trends. This indicates that separation is affected by electrostatic interactions because the membrane surface is more negatively charged after Ti3C2TX MXene coating. Additionally, the reusability of the Ti3C2TX MXene-coated membrane was evaluated in three filtration cycles for NOM. After the first and second cleanings, recoveries of water permeabilities were 95.5% and 91.6% for HA. Although NOM can act as a foulant, HA caused reversible fouling. These findings indicate that the Ti3C2TX-coated membrane can be engineered to effectively treat various organic contaminants with high water permeability, retention performance, and antifouling capability.

Automated summary

The Ti3C2TX MXene-coated membrane exhibited enhanced hydrophilicity, negatively charged surface, and improved performance in treating organic contaminants. The membrane showed good rejection of natural organic matter and charged pharmaceuticals, with the separation process influenced by electrostatic interactions. The Ti3C2TX MXene-coated membrane also demonstrated high water permeability, retention performance, and antifouling capability, making it effective for treating various organic contaminants.