Phase Inversion and Pore Formation of PVDF Membrane with Silica as Additive

Abstract

Membrane technology is seen as an effective alternative in water treatment strategies. Additive are often used to improve the pore formation on the surface of a membrane. However, little study has been done to prove the effect of an additive on the phase inversion of a membrane. This paper focusses on the effect of silica nanoparticles (additive) on the phase inversion of a PVDF membrane. SEM images shows the increase in pore distribution and filterability tests indicate an increasing permeability with an increasing silica content. A study on the viscosity of the dope solution illustrates the theory occurring behind the phase inversion process. Overall, silica plays a huge role in altering the phase inversion process that occurs in a membrane. This in turn produces a more porous membrane which is expected to be more resistant to fouling.