Development of novel mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for oil sands wastewater treatment: A critical review

While oil sands production plays a significant role in Canada's economy, the rise in oil sands production leads to increasing water withdrawal, consumption, storage and contamination that threaten the sustainability of water sources, biodiversity, ecosystem and public health. Effective treatment and reuse of oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) can be a strategic solution for these issues. Membrane technology has emerged as a favourite choice for OSPW treatment with high removal and energy efficiency, small footprint and facile operation, installation and scale-up. However, challenges also exist for membrane technologies related to fouling that causes a rapid decline in membrane performance. Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) prepared by mixing superhydrophilic zwitterionic materials and inorganic nanoparticles into host membranes are anticipated as next-generation membrane designs with significant potential for OSPW treatment by achieving multifunctionalities including fouling resistance, improved water permeability, selectivity and mechanical strength. Reproducibility and feasibility for large-scale industrial applications remain important research questions for the production of MMMs for OSPW treatment. This study provides new insight on the performance, stability and durability of MMMs, outlooking to the commercialization prospect of MMMs. The research outcomes therefore can provide valuable knowledge for the design and development of high-quality membranes with the required characteristics for OSPW treatment applications.

Automated summary

While oil sands production is important for Canada's economy, it also has negative impacts on water sources, biodiversity, ecosystems, and public health. Membrane technology, specifically mixed matrix membranes (MMMs), is being explored as a solution for treating oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) by improving membrane performance and durability. Reproducibility and feasibility for large-scale application are key research questions for the commercialization of MMMs.