New Fabrication Method to Increase the Efficacy of Membrane Separation Technology

Isolating oil from polluted water is of great significance. Current methods could be costly and challenging, and a few might introduce additional pollutants into the system. For instance, membrane materials could serve as a barrier to intercept oil, but they are low in efficiency and inappropriate for long-term use.

In Biointerphases, an AVS journal published by AIP Publishing, Chinese researchers developed a fabrication technique to increase the longevity and efficacy of membrane separation technology. The technology is over 99% effective at isolating a petroleum ether-in-water emulsion.

The team group created a nanofibrous membrane with electrospinning, in which a liquid polymer droplet was electrified and stretched to create fibers. They raised the membrane surface’s roughness by loading it with silver nanoparticles.

In water, this rough surface encourages a stable layer of water, which serve as a barrier to prevent oil droplets from penetrating the membrane.