projects

Nanoporous membranes for selective removal of micro pollutants from water

Nanoporous hybrid membranes with functional separation layers represent a promising new development for increasing membrane selectivity of certain substances (Andrieu-Brunsen et al. 2015). By adapting the functionalization of the interface layers (charge state, hydrophilicity), e.g. by pH-dependent zwitterionic polymers, permeation into membrane pores can be prevented or accelerated. This is highly important for sustainable water management in the context of future smart industry concepts. However, the functionality and resistance of such interface layers under application-related test conditions with regard to pressure, pH value, crossflow, permeability and presence of other constituents still remain unknown. Interdisciplinary cooperation of “Smart Membranes” and “Wastewater Technology” will explore basics of preparing functionalized nanoporous separation layers on macroporous substrates and their behavior during crossflow filtration of micropollutant solutions and wastewater. Permeability and selectivity will be optimized by repetitive iteration and benchmarked against a commercially available polymeric NF membrane.

Collaboration Prof. Engelhart TU Darmstadt: https://www.iwar.tu-darmstadt.de/abwasser/fgat/team_at/engelhart/engelhart_page.de.jsp

Currently involved team members: Mathias Stanzel, Felix Krusch

Funding: Fritz und Margot Faudi-Stiftung