PVDF and HYFLON AD membranes: Ideal interfaces for contactor applications

Super-hydrophobic fluorinated membranes were tailored by combining traditional dry-wet phase inversion and wet chemical treatment techniques. PVDF and HYFLON AD 60X were selected as raw polymers for their chemical and mechanical resistance as well as hydrophobic and solvophobic properties. Membranes with modulated pore size, narrow distribution and high overall porosity were manufactured without using additional additives or modifiers. High resistance to liquid water entry pressure (LEPw), high mass transfer and low surface free energy of the membrane surfaces were fully achieved. The combination of these two fluorinated polymers improved dramatically the mechanical resistance and the water repellence of the PVDF membranes. Well-controlled structure combined with aimed supra-molecular chemistry makes these porous layers ideal interfaces to be processed in membrane contactor devices. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.