Sonication-assisted preparation of pristine MWCNT–polysulfone conductive microporous membranes

Conductive microporous membranes were fabricated by the phase inversion technique from pristine multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT)–polysulfone mixtures. A sonication-assisted method was used to disperse MWCNT in the polysulfone matrix without a covalent modification of the MWCNT or the use of surf...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Materials letters 2011-01, Vol.65 (2), p.229-232
Main Authors: Medina-Gonzalez, Yaocihuatl, Remigy, Jean-Christophe
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
carbon nanotubes
Conductive membranes
Dispersions
electric field
Electric fields
hydrophobicity
Membranes
microfiltration
Microfiltration membranes
MWCNT–polysulfone membranes
Percolation
Phase shift
Pictures
Polysulfone membranes
Polysulfone resins
Scanning electron microscopy
Separation
surfactants
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Summary:Conductive microporous membranes were fabricated by the phase inversion technique from pristine multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT)–polysulfone mixtures. A sonication-assisted method was used to disperse MWCNT in the polysulfone matrix without a covalent modification of the MWCNT or the use of surfactants. Electron Microscopy (SEM) and conduction tests were used to characterize the membranes. SEM pictures indicated that a concentration of 3% of MWCNT allowed a good dispersion of the nanotubes inside the hydrophobic polysulfone matrix. Current–voltage tests showed efficient electron percolation pathways across the membrane as a result of the successful dispersion of pristine MWCNT. These membranes will be applied in separation of charged species where microfiltration together with application of electric fields is needed.
ISSN:0167-577X
1873-4979
DOI:10.1016/j.matlet.2010.10.016