Polystyrene-halloysite nano tube membranes for water purification

Abstract

Membrane technologies are a sustainable solution for treatment of water and wastewater. Here, the technical feasibility of polystyrene-halloysite nanotube (PS-HNT) membranes, fabricated by an ultrasound-assisted solution casting method, was explored for water purification. To this end, the effects of various solvents on the structure, morphology, thermal, and mechanical properties of PS-HNT membranes were investigated. Introduction of HNTs (5 wt%) into the polystyrene matrix demonstrated excellent thermal and mechanical properties along with good water flux, rejection of unwanted components, recovery, and regeneration cycles. These membranes were overall useful enough to purify real wastewater collected from pulp and paper mill.