Preparation and characterization of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) based ultrafiltration membranes using nano gamma-Al2O3

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) based ultrafiltration membranes were prepared from a PVDF/nano gamma-Al2O3 complex suspension where the gamma-Al2O3 is well dispersed. The effect of nano gamma-Al2O3 concentration on the membrane performances was investigated. Surface chemical compositions, surface and cross-section morphologies and hydrophilicity of the membranes were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and contact angle measurement, respectively. The mechanical strength of the membranes was also investigated. Permeation experiments were conducted to evaluate the water flux. Both static and dynamic BSA fouling resistance performances were investigated. All the experimental results indicate that the new PVDF ultrafiltration membranes demonstrate better separation performances over the pure PVDF membranes. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.