Functions of Nano-Amphiphilic Cellulose: Dispersibility and Modifiability in Polyethersulfone Membranes

Abstract

Amphiphilic cellulose with carboxyl groups and ester groups was synthesized and used as additive to tune the hydrophobicity and mechanical properties of polysulfone (PSf) membranes. The structure and morphology of the synthesized amphiphilic cellulose was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated good thermal performance of the composite membranes. The hydrophilic nature of the PSf membrane increased with the amphiphilic cellulose content. The contact angle was tested to characterize the hydrophilicity. The flux and water flux recovery ratio of blend membranes revealed that the surface enrichment of the amphiphilic cellulose gave the PSf blend membrane significantly improved surface hydrophilicity and antipollution ability.

Keywords:

• Antipollution
• hydrophilic modification
• nano-amphiphilic cellulose
• polysulfone membranes

Notes

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