Protection of polymeric membranes with antifouling surfacing via surface modifications

This review summarizes the recent studies on membrane fouling and the process of surface modification to develop fouling resistant membranes in microfiltration (MF), ultrafiltration (UF), and nanofiltration (NF) processes. Predominantly membrane properties such as hydrophilicity, surface charge, and roughness have an essential role in membrane fouling and flux decline. Surface modification techniques such as coating, plasma treatment, UV irradiation, grafting and chemical reactions on membrane surface are used to improve high potential membrane. Most studies in paper showed that an alteration of membrane surface properties favorably enhanced the fouling resistance of membranes along with either improved or sacrificed performance. This research highlights the emerging techniques for surface membrane modifications using nanoparticles, hydrophilic monomers and co-polymers, photochemical radiation, and innovative materials to reduce fouling on polymeric membranes. On the basis of this work, right strategies on the further development of fouling-resistant membranes might be made. The current research reviews the modification techniques and development of fouling resistant property of the polymeric membranes in the industrial applications.