Surface modification of PVDF membrane by radiation-induced graft polymerization for novel membrane bioreactor

PVDF (poly vinylidene fluoride) membrane was modified with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and sodium sulfite using a radiation-induced graft polymerization technique for unique ammonia removal process. Ion exchange capacities (IECs) of unmodified PVDF membrane, modified PVDF membrane and commercial cation exchange membrane (CEM) were investigated. The IEC value increased as the concentration of GMA increased. Batch experiments were carried out to evaluate the ion transport via the modified membrane. The mass flux of ammonia via the CEM and modified membrane at the initial ammonia concentration of 2000 mg/L were 1.16 mg-NH4+/m(2) s and 2.89 mg-NH4+/m(2) s, respectively. (C) 2016 The Korean Society of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.