Practicality and potential of membrane surface patterning in membrane technology

Abstract

Surface patterning of membranes has demonstrated significant performance enhancements in various membrane-based technologies. Surface patterns can increase the effective membrane area, improve interfacial area, and enhance hydrodynamics, leading to better membrane properties. Such patterns have been successfully fabricated on a lab scale using template-based molding and direct fabrication process. However, transitioning these techniques to commercial-scale production presents challenges, including maintaining pattern fidelity, ensuring reproducibility and scalability, achieving cost-effectiveness, and avoiding pattern-induced defects. This short article focuses on the emerging field of surface patterning of membranes, exploring different techniques for pattern creation and their effects on membrane properties, structure, and performance. The practicality, sustainability, and scalability challenges of each technique are thoroughly evaluated to determine their potential for commercialization and broader application in membrane technology. The essential steps and future directions needed to address these concerns and limitations are discussed, and a framework for evaluating surface patterning techniques is proposed to stimulate future research and development, advancing the commercial viability and reliability of surface-patterned membranes in the membrane technology industry.