Water permeation in polymeric membranes: Mechanism and synthetic strategy for water-inhibiting functional polymers

• Published in: Journal of membrane science 2018-10, Vol.564, p.184-192
• Main Authors: Araki, Yusuke, Kobayashi, Yusei, Kawaguchi, Touru, Kaneko, Takashi, Arai, Noriyoshi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Additive; Dissipative particle dynamics; Polymeric membrane; Water permeability
• ISSN: 0376-7388; 1873-3123
• DOI: 10.1016/j.memsci.2018.07.009

The prediction and control of penetration in a polymeric membrane is of critical importance in green chemistry and energy technology, including gas separation, water purification, and desalination. We performed molecular simulations of water transport through a polymeric membrane to clarify the key factors that dominate water permeation. The effects of additives and chemical interaction (solubility) on water inhibition were investigated. We found that additives reduce water permeability into the membrane. Upon incorporation of the additive, strength of coordination of water molecules near the membrane surface increases. Thus, the penetration frequency of water molecules into the membrane decreases. It is suggested that the local environment near the membrane surface plays a significant role in controlling water permeability. In order to gain deeper insights into the polymer design, we discussed the chemical interaction (solubility) parameter change between polymer chains and additives. Using a repulsive chemical species of a polymer chain for additives can lead to higher water inhibition. The ability to control water permeability into the membrane by polymer design can be exploited for applications in water separation technology. •Demonstrating water permeation into a polymeric membrane.•Investigating the effect of additives and chemical interaction on water inhibition.•We found that additives reduce water permeability into the membrane.•The water permeability is dominated by the behavior of the membrane interface.