Two different routes to prepare porous biodegradable composite membranes containing nanoclay

The method employed for membrane preparation and nanoparticle incorporation in membrane systems can affect their properties. This work aims to compare the better strategy to obtain membranes from the preparation of PBAT [Poly(butylene adipate co-terephthalate)] containing nanoclay Cloisite((R)) 20A (C20A) (0, 0.5, and 1 wt.%) by combined Evaporation/Non-solvent Induced Phase Separation (EIPS/NIPS) or dip coating methods. The SEM, TGA, contact angle measurements, FTIR, XRD, mechanical testing, and cost analysis characterized EIPS/NIPS to dip coating membranes. EIPS/NIPS membranes had smaller pores (0.3-0.5 mu m), with a more homogeneous pore diameter distribution due to C20A nanoclay insertion. PBAT/0.5% C20A(EIPS/NIPS) was the more hydrophilic membrane (37 degrees) with better mechanical properties proven by statistical analysis. The cost analysis showed that EIPS/NIPS membranes production cost per square meter (m(2)) was lower (US$ 73.4-73.8) than dip coating (US$ 89.0-99.2). The EIPS/NIPS method was the most economically and statistically advantageous, and its properties can favor future applications for PTEs removal in aqueous media.

Automated summary

The method used for membrane preparation and nanoparticle incorporation can impact the properties of the membranes. This study compared the use of Evaporation/Non-solvent Induced Phase Separation (EIPS/NIPS) and dip coating methods to obtain membranes containing PBAT and nanoclay. The EIPS/NIPS membranes showed smaller pores, more homogeneous pore diameter distribution, better mechanical properties, and lower production cost compared to the dip coating membranes. EIPS/NIPS method is economically and statistically advantageous, and holds potential for applications in removing pollutants from aqueous media.