Preparation of polysulfone membranes via vapor-induced phase separation and simulation of direct-contact membrane distillation by measuring hydrophobic layer thickness

► PSf hydrophobic membranes were prepared with VIPS. ► Bi-continuous top surface was good for the permeate flux in DCMD. ► There was hardly any wetting during 90 h desalination test. ► The thickness of the hydrophobic layer was first measured using the weight method.