Period: 11.2018 – 6.2020

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Project team:

Prof. Dr.-Ing. M. Engelhart | Fabian-Hagen Leskow | FB 13, Abwassertechnik, IWAR

Prof. Dr. A. Andrieu-Brunsen | Mathias Stanzel | FB 7, Smart Membranes

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Project description:

Nanoporus hybrid membranes with functional separation layers represent a promising new development for increasing membrane selectivity of certain substances (Andrieu-Brunsen et al. 2015). By adapting the functionalization oft he interface layers (charge state, hydrophilicity), e.g. by pH-dependent zwitterionic polymers, permeation into membrane pores can be prevented or accelerated.

This is highly important for sustainable water management in the context of future smart industry concepts. However, the functionality and resistance of such interface layers under application-related test conditions with regard to pressure, pH value, crossflow, permeability and presence of other constitunes still remain unknown. Interdisciplinary cooperation of „Smart Membranes“ and Wastewater Technology“ will explore basics of preparing functionalized nanoporous separation layers on macroporous substrates and their behavior during crossflow filtration of micropollutant solutions and waste water. Permeability and selectivity will be optimized by repetitive iteration and benchmarked against a commercially available polymeric NF membrane.