Innovation of poly(ionic liquid)-stabilized TiO2 for membrane-based dye waste remediation

Abstract

Organic–inorganic nanohybrids based membrane materials are reported for separation applications. In the present study, poly(ionic liquid)-stabilized TiO₂/polysulfone-based mixed matrix membranes are produced using a phase separation technique induced by a nonsolvent. The presence of PIL-stabilized TiO₂ nanohybrids and the hydrophilic nature of PIL enhance the overall hydrophilicity of the PSf membrane, reaching an impressive water flux of 158 LMH at an operating pressure of 6 bar. Further, membranes were characterized through, Field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Atomic force microscopy, Thermogravimetry, and Zeta potential. The synergistic effect of positively charged PIL and TiO₂ nanohybrids enhances the membrane's anionic dye retention capability, achieving retention rates of nearly 90.83% for Methyl Blue, 94.28% for Congo red, 65.89% for Evan's blue, and 30.98% for Methyl orange with respect to dye size. However hydrophilic membrane showed outstanding antifouling property of the M₂ membrane achieved ∼77% of flux recovery ratio with minimal of ∼37% total fouling for 1000 ppm of Bovine Serum Albumin as a foulant. Highly efficient nanocomposite membranes exhibit significant potential for dye removal and addressing water contamination issues, making them attractive solutions for sustainable fouling resilient water treatment processes.