Phase-inversion membranes. Characterisation of patterns of skin holes

The statistical structure of the two‐dimensional random pattern of holes which are formed through the skin of phase‐inversion membranes is analysed. Membranes were prepared from a polyetherimide solved in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone; solutions were quickly immersed in water, at room temperature. The rand...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Macromolecular chemistry and physics 1995-11, Vol.196 (11), p.3615-3621
Main Authors: Addad, Jean-Pierre Cohen, Pedro-Bom, Ricardo
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Exact sciences and technology
Exchange resins and membranes
Forms of application and semi-finished materials
Polymer industry, paints, wood
Technology of polymers
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Summary:The statistical structure of the two‐dimensional random pattern of holes which are formed through the skin of phase‐inversion membranes is analysed. Membranes were prepared from a polyetherimide solved in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone; solutions were quickly immersed in water, at room temperature. The random pattern was observed with videomicroscopy; it is shown that it can be described quantitatively from the analysis of the ensemble of all quadrilaterals drawn from nearest neighbouring holes. Perimeters and areas of quadrilaterals were found to obey a log‐normal probability distribution function. Several features characterize the random pattern of holes. (i) There is a characteristic minimum distance between nearest neighboring holes; its order of magnitude is 5 μm. (ii) This distance is shortened when the polymer concentration in the casting solution is increased. (iii) This distance is lengthened when the solvent concentration in the coagulation bath is increased.
ISSN:1022-1352
1521-3935
DOI:10.1002/macp.1995.021961115