Membrane Surface Modifications by Ion Beam Irradiation for Increasing Mass Transfer and Fouling Resistance

本研究的目的是对离子束辐照对聚合物膜液相输运特性的影响进行实验探索。商用纳滤膜将暴露在不同能量的离子照射下。该项目的具体目标包括(i)确定离子束辐照对表面形貌、微观结构、化学结构和疏水性的影响，（ii）确定改性的稳定性，以及（iii）在水分离实验中评估改性膜的性能，以确定对运输、选择性、污垢和弹性的影响。FTIR将用于探测构成膜选择层的聚合物化学结构的演变。原子力显微镜将用于跟踪离子束辐照引起的表面形貌演变。就更广泛的影响而言，改进的水净化技术可以更好地去除病原体和污染物。这个多学科项目将为研究生和本科生提供教育经验。

The objective of the proposed research is to perform an experimental exploration of the impact of ion beam irradiation on the liquid-phase transport properties of polymer membranes. Commercially-available nanofiltration membranes will be exposed to ion irradiation of varying energies. Specific objectives of the project include (i) determining the effects of ion beam irradiation on surface morphology, microstructure, chemical structure, and hydrophobicity, (ii) determining the stability of modifications, and (iii) evaluating the performance of modified membranes in water separations experiments to determine effects on transport, selectivity, fouling, and resilience. FTIR will be used to probe the evolution in chemical structure of the polymer that constitutes the selective layer of the membrane. AFM will be used to track the evolution in surface morphology induced by ion beam irradiation. In terms of broader impacts, improved water purification techniques could lead to better removal of pathogens and pollutants. This multidisciplinary project will provide educational experiences for both graduate and undergraduate students.