Ultrafiltration Advancement: Modified Polyethersulfone Membranes Using Limnocharis flava-Derived Nanocellulose and Graphene Oxide for Wastewater Treatment

The problem of water contamination by heavy metals such as iron (Fe) from acid mine drainage is an urgent global issue. This study offers an innovative method utilizing polyethersulfone (PES) ultrafiltration membranes reinforced with a combination of nanocellulose derived from the aquatic plant Limnocharis flava and graphene oxide (GO). These hybrid membranes, developed via the non-solvent induced phase separation (NIPS) approach, were optimized by adjusting additive concentrations to improve their structural and functional features. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy validated the inclusion of functional groups (O-H, C=O, and elevated sulfone content), signifying the successful integration of the additives into the PES matrix. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) demonstrated that the modified membranes displayed a more homogeneous and densely dispersed pore structure in contrast to pure PES. The PN۲GO membrane, composed of ۲% nanocellulose and ۱% GO, had the maximum permeability coefficient (۳۲ L/m²·h·bar), due to improved hydrophilicity and an optimized pore structure. Despite the modified membranes demonstrating a marginal decrease in Fe rejection attributed to enlarged pore structures, the inclusion of GO markedly enhanced iron adsorption. The findings highlight the synergistic efficacy of nanocellulose and GO in enhancing PES membrane performance, indicating a pathway toward more sustainable and effective environmental remediation solutions. Although modifications are still necessary, the prospects for water filtration have significantly improved.

کلیدواژه ها:

polyethersulfone ، Ultrafiltration ، Nanocellulose ، Limnocharis Flava ، graphene oxide ، Heavy metal