Recent Advances in Preparation of Porous Polymeric Membranes by Unique Techniques and Mitigation of Fouling through Surface Modification

Abstract

In this review, modern techniques for the membrane preparation including 3D printing, phase separation micro molding, selective etching and self‐assembled and non‐solvent induced phase separation (SNIPS) are discussed. The article also takes account of traditional membrane preparation techniques such as phase inversion, sintering, track etching and electrospinning. Although, there is plenty of literature exists on the preparation and tailoring of membrane properties, there are still challenges to develop and establish a reliable membrane fabrication method with high flux, selectivity and anti‐fouling properties. Hydrophobic polymers are more prone to foul due to its low surface energy compared to hydrophilic polymers. Fouling resistance of membrane against microbes and proteins had been significantly improved by the use of nanoparticles, and modification with hydrophilic polymers. Mussel‐inspired coating and amyloid proteins are also recently found to have excellent antibacterial activity are also reviewed. Hence, a broad understanding of structure and properties is essential for further development and progress in membrane technology for water purification.

The Key Role of Modifications in Biointerfaces toward Rendering Antibacterial and Antifouling Properties in Polymeric Membranes for Water Remediation: A Critical Assessment

“…MF and UF based membranes are prepared using this strategy. [39] Figure 4 shows the effect on the surface morphologies of membranes obtained after annealing at various temperatures. In their other study, blends of linear and branched PP were synthesized and their effects toward crystalline and amorphous domains in the precursor films were studied.…”

“…[43][44][45][46][47] The ENMs are prepared by the electrostatic generation of nanofibers by spinning a homogenous polymer dope solution(s) or polymer melt(s) under high voltage. [39,47] The thickness and the structures of these nanofibers can be tailored by varying the solution or melt viscosity, environmental conditions, applied voltage, and the flow rate of the solution. [39,47] The thickness and the structures of these nanofibers can be tailored by varying the solution or melt viscosity, environmental conditions, applied voltage, and the flow rate of the solution.…”

“…[226] Zhang et al obtained an effective pore size of 8 nm using poly(styrene-b-acrylic acid) on a polycarbonate membrane. [39] Microfabrication and Nano Imprint Lithography (NIL): Microfabricated membranes are obtained by hierarchically patterning the replica of micrometer-sized relief structure on a membrane surface. [228] It is to be noted that these isoporous membranes have polar groups which directly improve the hydrophilicity of the membranes and assist in antifouling properties.…”

3D Printing of Complex‐type SiOC Ceramics Derived From Liquid Photosensitive Resin

“…At the same time, 3D printing has become a versatile, simple and cost‐effective method for the fabrication of precise ceramic monoliths. Compared to traditional method, 3D printing allows the development of complex details of the product in a single run . The PDCs can be combined with 3D printing technology, which provides a suitable approach to synthesis ceramic parts with complex structures.…”

Immobilization of Perylene‐3,4,9,10‐Tetracarboxylic Dianhydride on Hollow Polysulfone Fibers: Primary Amine Coupling and Fluorescence Reporting

“…One of their main drawbacks is their hydrophobic nature which causes membrane fouling, a phenomenon that puts limit to their application field . To date, chemical modification of PS fibers has mainly been addressed to prevent membrane fouling through the increase of the surface hydrophilicity …”