Pulsed hydraulic-pressure-responsive self-cleaning membrane

Yang Zhao, Yuna Gu, Bin Liu, Yujie Yan, Chao Shan, Jian Guo, Shantao Zhang, Chad D. Vecitis and Guandao Gao ()
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Yang Zhao: Nanjing University
Yuna Gu: Nanjing University
Bin Liu: Nanjing University
Yujie Yan: Nanjing University
Chao Shan: Nanjing University
Jian Guo: Nanjing University
Shantao Zhang: Nanjing University
Chad D. Vecitis: Harvard University
Guandao Gao: Nanjing University

Nature, 2022, vol. 608, issue 7921, 69-73

Abstract: Abstract Pressure-driven membranes is a widely used separation technology in a range of industries, such as water purification, bioprocessing, food processing and chemical production1,2. Despite their numerous advantages, such as modular design and minimal footprint, inevitable membrane fouling is the key challenge in most practical applications3. Fouling limits membrane performance by reducing permeate flux or increasing pressure requirements, which results in higher energetic operation and maintenance costs4–7. Here we report a hydraulic-pressure-responsive membrane (PiezoMem) to transform pressure pulses into electroactive responses for in situ self-cleaning. A transient hydraulic pressure fluctuation across the membrane results in generation of current pulses and rapid voltage oscillations (peak, +5.0/−3.2 V) capable of foulant degradation and repulsion without the need for supplementary chemical cleaning agents, secondary waste disposal or further external stimuli3,8–13. PiezoMem showed broad-spectrum antifouling action towards a range of membrane foulants, including organic molecules, oil droplets, proteins, bacteria and inorganic colloids, through reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and dielectrophoretic repulsion.

Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04942-4

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