Performance studies of Fine-tuned Poly Ether Sulphone Composite Membranes using Azadirachta indica for Antifouling Properties in Industrial wastewater treatment

Abstract An antifouling polyether sulphone (PES) microfiltration membrane was developed by physical blending of TiO2 nanoparticle for membrane bioreactor (MBR) treating tannery wastewater. Incorporation of anti-fouling materials into the polymer by physical blending and composite PES membranes were synthesized using TiO2 nanoparticle and the membranes were made by Non-Induced Phase Inversion Method (NIPS). The membrane morphology was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the stability of the membranes was measured by calculating the tensile strength. From the results of contact angle measurements, the hydrophilicity of the membranes was found to increase with the PES/ 4% TiO2. From the fouling rate analysis, TiO2 nanoparticle incorporated membrane PES/ TiO2 has a higher antibiofouling effect. The antimicrobial properties of TiO2 guaranteed an anti-bio-fouling effect thus by preventing the microbial growth in the membrane. The percentage of COD removal was found to be 89% and the complete removal of suspended solids has been observed.