Enhancement in copper ion removal by PPy@Al2O3 polymeric nanocomposite membrane

• γ-Al2O3was successfully coated with polypyrrole.
• PPy@Al2O3 nanoparticles were mixed with different concentrations into the PES matrix.
• Adding 1.0 wt.% of synthesized NPs led to increment of copper removal up to 81%.
• Coating nanofillers with appropriate polymer might result in superior efficiency.

γ-Al2O3 nanoparticles were coated with PPy via an in situ polymerization reaction. 0.01, 0.1 and 1.0 wt.% of PPy@Al2O3 nanoparticles were introduced into polyethersulfone (PES) flat sheet membrane to seek the adsorptive capability of nanocomposite membrane in removing copper ion from water. Nanocomposite membranes were prepared using phase inversion method. It was revealed that PPy@Al2O3 could significantly promote copper removal superiorly in membrane mixed with 1.0 wt.%PPy coated alumina nanoparticles. Showing higher water flux in comparison with pristine PES, acceptable permeation was achieved with a partial decrease compared to the neat alumina mixed membrane.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide