Application of cellulose acetate fibrous membranes in the removal of micro- and submicron solid particulates in drinking water media

Cellulose is one of the most abundant natural polymers. Combined with its unique properties, cellulose nanofibers, therefore, have potential applications in industry. Electrospinning is a convenient technique that is widely used to make nanofibers. This process, however, needs optimization in order to fine tune the produced nanofibers. The current study investigates the effects of varying the different electrospinning parameters on the quality and monodispersity of the produced nanofibers. Cellulose acetate (CA), a cellulose precursor, is used in this regard. Solutions containing different concentrations of CA, up to 20% by weight, were electrospun into micro-nanofibers. The produced nanofibers were characterized by SEM, DSC, and IR techniques. Results showed the crucial dependence of the nanofibers monodispersity on the CA solution concentration, the applied voltage, the flow rate, the spinning distance, and the nature of atmosphere surrounding the electrospinning setup. Optimally prepared CA membranes as well as two commercially available filtering membranes were utilized in the removal of tiny solid particulates from drinking water media.