Preparation and characterization of PES–Diatomaceous organic–inorganic composite ultrafiltration membrane

In this study, Polyethersulfon/Diatomaceous composite membranes were prepared by Phase Inversion method with different percent of diatomaceous particles as additive. The physical and chemical characterization of membrane, morphology and water contact angle were investigated by FT-IR, TGA, SEM and CA techniques. The effect of diatomaceous particles on water flux and Bovine Serum Albumin percentage removal were discussed. Difference in the pore structure and finger like cross section morphology with the presence of diatomaceous particles were observed in PES membranes. The results showed membrane performances such as hydrophilicity and water flux were enhanced by adding diatomaceous particles and modified membranes showed better antifouling properties.