Synthesis, characterization and in vitro studies of polysulfone/graphene oxide composite membranes

The aim of the study was the synthesis of polysulfone (PS)/graphene oxide (GO) composite membranes by phase inversion method as well as their structural, morphological, thermal and mechanical investigation. The performance of composite membranes in terms of distilled water and ethanol fluxes was investigated. The biological activity of mouse mesenchymal stem cells in contact with the new materials was measured. The successful incorporation of GO nanosheets within the PS matrix was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Tensile tests indicated a key contribution of GO to the improvement of mechanical performances of PS. Ethanol and water fluxes decrease was remarked with GO addition and was assigned to the stabilization of composite membrane structure. Composite membranes cytotoxicity, cell viability and proliferation potential tests indicated excellent biocompatibility, enhancing cell proliferation and grouping for higher amount of GO within PS matrix. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.