Fabrication of CNT Composite Membrane to Eliminate Biofouling

Abstract

By Amani Russell, Chemical Engineering

Advisor: Noe Alvarez

Presentation ID: AM_ATRIUM08

Abstract: Membrane technology has been a useful tool to aid in wastewater treatment and water filtration. A consistent issue affecting membrane use in these industries is the occurrence of biofouling. Traditionally, biofilm has been removed by either replacing the membrane or treating the membrane with chemicals to prevent biofilm accumulation. Polycarbonate/carbon nanotube (CNT) membranes can kill off E. Coli on the membrane's surface by using heat. Despite being able to effectively remove biofouling with this method, the membrane did not effectively encapsulate the CNT layer, allowing CNT to be in contact with the filtrate. To prevent CNTs from entering filtered water, a Polysulfone/CNT composite membrane had been fabricated in which the CNTs have been encapsulated in a polysulfone matrix. By fabricating the membrane with unexposed CNTs, the polymer/CNT composite can be used to combat biofouling in water filtration applications with low risk of CNTs to enter the filtrate.