Membrane filtration is one of the most commonly used methods to remove microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), which allows for precise separation of different types of MPs in a facile, efficient, and environmentally-friendly manner. Membrane filtration is dependent on the selective permeability of membrane pores driven by pressure differences. However, larger MPs can quickly block the pores of the membrane, reducing permeability. Additionally, the charged nature of MP/NPs causes them to accumulate on the membrane surface, further hampering the performance. To address these issues, dual-charged metallic organic framework (MOF) within a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane is used to capture neutral and charged NPs/MPs efficiently. This novel approach aims to overcome conventional membrane limitations and focusses on studying fouling mechanisms and mitigation strategies.
Project funding:
Research Council of Lithuania (RCL), Projects of Postdoctoral fellowships funded by the state budget of the Republic of Lithuania
Project results:
The project aims to develop nanofiltration (NF) membrane via phase-inversion mechanism, as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution to remove MP/NP particles from drinking water, given the growing global demand for potable water. In addition, the project will also study fouling mechanisms and mitigation strategies, using a vibrational surface cleaning based on ultrasonic excitation, which parameters correlate with the properties of MP/NPs. The application of this technology to separation membranes will enhance MP/NP removal performance, increase permeation flux, reduce energy requirements, and provide valuable insight.
Period of project implementation: 2024-03-18 - 2026-08-17
Project coordinator: Kaunas University of Technology
