Single step fabrication of polymer/silicate porous composite membranes via water-glass induced phase inversion

ABSTRACT

Water-glass, a low-cost silica precursor solution, is used to produce mostly skinned, polymer–silicate composite membranes with a porous bulk. We explore primarily Nylon 6-10/formic acid dopes where the polymer solvent is an acid, and polysulfone/DMF dope as an example of a polymer dope based on a non-acidic water-miscible solvent. Elemental distribution of silicon in cross sections suggests compositional uniformity of the formed membranes with in some cases 20 wt. % of silicate load. Membranes formed can be used either as separation media or as precursors for compact polymers reinforced with silicate particles.

Graphical Abstract

KEYWORDS:

• Phase inversion
• water-glass
• composite membranes
• Nylon 6-10
• polysulfone
• silicate particles

Acknowledgments

This work is part of the 03ED375 research project, implemented within the framework of the “Reinforcement Programme of Human Research Manpower” PENED and co-financed by National and Community Funds (20% from the Greek Ministry of Development- General Secretariat of Research and Technology and 80% from E.U.-European Social Fund). The authors wish to acknowledge the help of Dr. George Karadimos, Dr. Alexandros Karantzalis and Ms. Eudokia Galata.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the “Reinforcement Programme of Human Research Manpower” PENED and co-financed by National and Community Funds (20% from the Greek Ministry of Development- General Secretariat of Research and Technology and 80% from E.U.-European Social Fund). [03ED375].