Magnetic Field Assisted Synthesis Method: Improving Anti-Fouling and Filtration Performance of Γ-Fe2o3@Cnts/Pvdf Ultra-Filtration Membranes

AbstractsPVDF ultrafiltration membranes face limitations in practical applications due to fouling propensity and low flux. This study developed a novel γ-Fe2O3@CNTs/PVDF composite membrane through magnetic field-assisted fabrication (M/γ-Fe2O3@CNTs/PVDF), demonstrating significantly enhanced performance. The magnetically aligned membrane exhibited optimized morphology with 50.0 nm mean pore size and 65.0% porosity, yielding 84.1 L·m-2·h-1 water flux (vs. 33.4 for pure PVDF) and 84.2% bovine serum albumin rejection (vs. 41.4%). Surface modifications reduced roughness and improved hydrophilicity, achieving 72.5% The flux recovery ratio with only 27.5% irreversible fouling. Notably, the membrane's persulfate activation capability enabled efficient chemical-free regeneration, boosting FRR to 86.8% and reducing irreversible fouling to 10.5% after oxidative backwashing. These enhancements stem from: (1) magnetic alignment creating ordered nanopores for improved water transport, (2) hydrophilic γ-Fe2O3@CNTs surface enrichment for antifouling, and (3) integrated persulfate activation for self-cleaning. The work presents a viable strategy to overcome PVDF membrane limitations while offering sustainable operation through reduced chemical consumption and extended service life.