Multifunctional hybrid membranes for photocatalytic and adsorptive removal of water contaminants of emerging concern

Abstract

The focus of this work lies on the production of a multifunctional materials that allows the combination of photocatalysis and adsorption in a unique polymeric substrate. For this purpose, Au/TiO2 and Y2(CO3)3 nanoparticles were immobilised on a poly (vinylidene fluoride hexafluoropropylene), (PVDF-HFP), substrate, and the characterisation of these materials was performed, as well as the pollutant removal efficiency. An efficient TiO2 functionalisation with gold nanoparticles was achieved, endowing these particles with the ability to absorb visible radiation. Concerning the membranes, a favourable porous structure was obtained, with an average pore size of 4 µm, and the nanoparticles immobilisation did not alter the physical and chemical properties of the polymeric membrane. The produced hybrid materials, including both Au/TiO2 and Y2(CO3)3 nanoparticles presented an efficiency of 57% in the degradation of norfloxacin (5 mg/L) under ultraviolet radiation for 120 minutes, 80% under visible radiation for 300 minutes, and 58% in arsenic adsorption for 240 minutes. These membranes represent a new platform for the removal of several pollutants, which may allow their incorporation in more efficient and less energy-consuming water treatment processes and favour water treatment in developing countries with low energy resources.