Thin film composite forward osmosis membranes based on polydopamine modified polysulfone substrates with enhancements in both water flux and salt rejection

► A novel approach was developed to fabricate TFC forward osmosis membranes. ► Membrane substrates were modified by polydopamine (PDA). ► PDA modification plays a positive role in the fabrication of TFC-FO membranes. ► The PDA modification changes the physico-chemical properties of the substrates. ► The TFC-FO membranes show enhancements in both water flux and salt rejection.