Synthesis, characterization and antibacterial activity of polystyrene based Mg3 (PO4)2/Ca3 (PO4)2 composite membrane

Polystyrene based magnesium–calcium phosphate (MCP) composite membranes were synthesized by co-precipitation method for various 1:1 electrolytes at different pressures and concentrations. The membranes were characterized by XRD, FTIR, antibacterial activity and SEM studies. The membranes were found to be crystalline in nature with uniform arrangement of particles without any sign of visible cracks and exhibited excellent inhibitory results against E. coli and P. aeruginosa bacteria. These composite membranes are found to be stable in acidic (1 M H2SO4) as well basic (1 M NaOH) medium and follow the decreasing order of charge density for various 1:1 electrolyte solutions (KCl > NaCl > LiCl) while the transport number of cations are found to be in the order KCl < NaCl < LiCl.

Fig. Plots of membranes potential (mV) versus − log C2 (mol/l) at different concentrations of KCl electrolyte solution for MCP composite membranes prepared at different pressures of 100–160 MPa.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The membrane was found to be crystalline in nature and no sign of visible cracks.
► Membrane potential of electrolytes followed the order LiCl > NaCl > KCl.
► The order of charge density for 1:1 electrolytes solution was LiCl < NaCl < KCl.
► The membrane show good results against E. coli and P. aeruginosa bacteria.