Effect of Nanoparticle Incorporation on the Mechanical Properties of Polyelectrolytes Multilayers Membranes: Study of Model Surfaces via AFM
In this project, you will work together with Membrane Surface Science (MSuS) and Physics of Complex Fluids (PCF).
Nanofiltration membranes are critical for addressing challenges in water treatment, particularly in removing pollutants such as organic micropollutants (OMPs) and salts. Polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs), fabricated via the Layer-by-Layer (LbL) technique, are promising candidates for creating high-performance separation layers. These layers are ultrathin and can be tailored to achieve both high permeability and selective separation [1][2]. However, the mechanical stability of these PEMs is a key factor determining their performance and durability under operational conditions in membrane nanofiltration, especially in the presence of harsh or sharp objects that can damage the multilayer.
Incorporating nanoparticles (NPs) into PEMs during the LbL process is believed to enhance their mechanical properties, providing improved resistance to pressure and shear forces during filtration. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is an ideal characterization technique because of its nanoscale resolution, enabling the precise measurement of key properties of the mechanical behavior.
Key aspects of this study includes:
- Model Surface Preparation and PEM Fabrication: PEMs will be deposited on model surfaces such as silicon wafers to ensure precise characterization. Nanoparticles of different types and sizes will be incorporated at specific stages during the LbL assembly.
- Mechanical Characterization Using AFM: Using Atomic force microscopy (AFM) the mechanical properties such as Young's modulus, adhesion, and viscoelasticity will be quantified.
- Correlation with Nanofiltration Applications: Mechanical properties observed on model surfaces will be correlated with potential membrane performance under nanofiltration conditions, such as resistance to fouling, pressure tolerance, and operational lifespan.
By understanding how nanoparticles influence the mechanical behavior of PEMs, this study will contribute to the development of robust and durable nanofiltration membranes with enhanced performance.
If you want to know more about this project, please contact
Roberto Andrade (j.r.andradeaguirre@utwente.nl) or dr. Igor Siretanu (i.siretanu@utwente.nl)
References
[1] te Brinke, E., Reurink, D. M., Achterhuis, I., de Grooth, J., & de Vos, W. M. (2020). Asymmetric polyelectrolyte multilayer membranes with ultrathin separation layers for highly efficient micropollutant removal. Applied Materials Today, 18, 10047
[2] Regenspurg J., et al., (2024) Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Membranes: A Experimental Review. Desalination