Preparation of Elastin Membranes Based on Surfactants and Separation Mechanism

Abstract

The influence of a classical surfactant – palmitoyl-glycylglycine and bola amphiphilic – demecarium bromide upon the elastin membrane preparation and separation mechanism of turmeric from aqueous solutions was studied by: UV-VIS spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering and separation rates. The tensile strength and hydrophobic property were improved by introducing a surfactant (classic or bola). In this research the influence of surfactants upon the microporous structure and retention of turmeric from aqueous solutions was studied. The biomembranes were produced by a casting-solvent evaporation technique. The elastin powder was dissolved in a water-acetic acid (70:30 v/v) solution with and without plasticizer: glycerol and surfactant (classic or bola), constant continuous stirring for 5-7 hrs. at 60°C, then degassed the solution for 2 hrs. The solution was poured and afterwards maintained in the oven at 45-55°C for 5-8 hrs. Ecological biomembranes are obtained from a biodegradable biopolymer – elastin, and can be used successfully in removing turmeric from wastewaters.