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

• 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
• ISSN: 0167-577X; 1873-4979
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matlet.2010.10.016

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.