The fragmented 3D-covalent organic framework in cellulose acetate membrane for efficient phenol removal

The membrane-based separation of molecular pollutants has several advantages such as minimum energy utilization, recyclability, and commercial viability. However, the membrane fabrications should be in line with the suitable porosity, functionality, mechanical strength, and economical for their practical applications. Herein, we report a novel hybrid membrane (TamDbta-CA) of low-cost cellulose acetate (CA) polymer and functionally diverse porous defective 3D-COF (TamDbta) for the removal of toxic phenol from industrially relevant synthetic oil-produced water. The low percentage (0.8%) use of TamDbta as pillars in CA-membranes improved the porosity, hydrophilicity, mechanical strength, and separation efficiency of phenol (∼80 to 90 %). The defective functional sites (–C=O and –Br) and nanoporosity of TamDbta and its uniform distribution throughout the mixed-matrix membrane contributed to the enhancement of membrane performance. The strategic membrane design and its efficient use for removing toxic pollutants may pave the way for using COFs as a pillar in commercially viable membranes.