Synthesis of PVDF‐B₄C mixed matrix membrane for ultrafiltration of protein and photocatalytic dye removal

Abstract

In this work, polyvinylidene fluoride-boron carbide mixed matrix membranes were synthesized via phase inversion method. The synthesized membranes were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, porosity, and contact angle. The mixed matrix membranes (0-5 wt.% of boron carbide) were tested for ultrafiltration of bovine serum albumin solution and photodegradation property using rhodamine B and methylene blue dyes. The morphological images reveal the existence of boron carbide particles on the surface of the membranes. Upon introduction of B 4 C particles, the performance of the membranes was improved: permeate flux increases from 163.13 to 351.15 L/m 2 h; bovine serum albumin rejection increased from 77.1% to 99.1%; relative flux reduction decreased from 45.58% to 16.06%; flux recovery ratio increased from 61.71% to 98.42%. Furthermore, maximum photodegradation yield was observed for membranes with 4 wt.% boron carbide particles with degradation efficiency of 96.7% and 96% for rhodamine B and methylene blue dyes, respectively. Furthermore, the rate constant of the optimum membrane was higher than the pristine membrane (about 2.05 and 2.26 times higher for rhodamine B and methylene blue dyes, respectively). Indeed, the mixed matrix membranes present a great prospect for the photodegradation of organic dyes.

Boron carbide reinforced electrospun nanocomposite fiber mats for radiation shielding

“…[ 10–13 ] Due to boron carbide's outstanding properties, in recent years, boron carbide‐reinforced polymer matrix composites have become an attractive subject. [ 13–19 ]…”

“…[10][11][12][13] Due to boron carbide's outstanding properties, in recent years, boron carbide-reinforced polymer matrix composites have become an attractive subject. [13][14][15][16][17][18][19] Polymeric materials can also slow down neutron particles thanks to H atoms with a large absorption crosssection in their molecular structure. Polymer matrix composites for neutron shielding applications have become a popular topic because they are easier to fabricate and shape than bulk ceramics.…”