A team of New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) researchers has developed a novel approach that uses microwave technology to more easily synthesize and fine-tune a new type of membrane that effectively purifies water from a wide range of contaminants.

The membrane synthesis technique takes a few minutes, making it one of the fastest methods for creating covalent organic framework (COF) membranes.

These membranes act as filters in devices designed to clean polluted water from specific contaminants allowing its reuse in different applications – an important discovery at a time when efficient wastewater treatment becomes vital in a world threatened by water scarcity.

The new type of dual-faced membrane, characterised by its unique superhydrophilic and near-hydrophobic surfaces, enables efficient removal of contaminants like oils and dyes from water. This dual functionality enhances the filtration process and endows the membranes with strong antibacterial properties, which is crucial for long-term usability an
d effectiveness.

Published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, the study titled “Tunable Wettability of a Dual-Faced COF Membrane for Enhanced Water Filtration” presents this novel approach developed by Farah Benyettou and Asmaa Jrad under the leadership of Ali Trabolsi, Professor of Chemistry and Co-Principal Investigator at the NYUAD Water Research Centre.

The team’s method involves a one-step microwave-mediated synthesis that occurs at the liquid-water vapor interface, allowing precise control over the membrane’s properties without the need for subsequent modifications.

Source : Emirates News Agency