Fabrication and performance optimization of an advanced pervaporation desalination membrane: A study utilizing PVDF and hydrophilic active layer as composite

Pervaporation emerges as a promising technique for brine treatment. In this investigation, we employed a PVDF substrate layer and applied various coating solutions using a simple spray technique to produce a composite pervaporation membrane. The composite membrane's chemical structure, morphology, hydrophilicity, swelling property, surface roughness, and crosslinking conditions were thoroughly investigated. Notably, the PVDF/PEI/P(SS-MA) composite membrane exhibited outstanding desalination performance, demonstrating high salt rejection and flux of 308.7 ± 13.8 kg m −2 h −1 when subjected to a 3.5 wt% sodium chloride solution. Even at an elevated brine concentration of 20 wt%, the membrane maintained a commendable flux of 88.76 ± 5.4 kg m −2 h −1 at 72 °C. These findings underscore the efficacy of the developed composite membrane for brine desalination applications. • PVDF/PEI/P(SS-MA) composite membrane was prepared using the NIPS technique. • PVDF/PEI/P(SS-MA) composite membrane demonstrated excellent desalination ability. • PVDF/PEI/P(SS-MA) composite membrane was affected by temperature and salt concentration. • PVDF/PEI/P(SS-MA) composite membrane showed better long-term desalination and antifouling properties.