Performance assessment of electrospun nanofibers for filter applications

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of nanofiber microfiltration membranes, spun by an innovative electrospinning technique, in water filtration applications. As such, this study bridges between developments in electrospinning techniques for the production of flat sheet membranes and the application of these membranes in water filtration. Three different applications were examined. First, the use of the membrane (functionalized or non-functionalized) for the removal of pathogens was investigated. Second the electrospun flat sheet membranes were applied in a lab scale submerged membrane bioreactor (MBR). Third, the electrospun membranes were applied as stand-alone filter for water treatment. Next to these applications, physical properties such as clean water permeability (CWP) and strength were also examined. The test showed that the electrospun membranes can be used for water filtration applications, but that further research is necessary towards irreversible fouling properties and level of functionalisation.