Removal of Bacteria in Water with Cationic Polyester Fibers

Abstract

: We developed an effective system to eliminate microorganisms from environmental water using cationic polyester fibers. The polyester fibers were cationized by dipping with 1% Poly (diallyldimethyammonium chloride) solution. The zeta potential of polyester fiber particles and some bacteria was measured using microscopic electrophoresis. The mean zeta potential of regular polyester fiber particles was -25mV and cationic polyester fiber particles was +45mV. The mean zeta potential of the bacteria, Bacillus subtilis was -15mV, Escheria coli, -25mV Legionella pneumophila, -25mV. The microbial suspension is pumped through the cationic polyester fiber filter. Bacteria electro-adsorption to the cationic polyester fibers was examined by bioassay. Relatively large numbers of bacteria could be removed by adsorption to the cationic polyester fiber. It was observed by electron microscopy that the bacteria adsorbed on the surface of cationic polyester fibers.