High Performance Antibacterial Structure‐Tuned Hemofiltration Membrane for Facile Permeability of Blood Plasma During Plasmapheresis

ABSTRACT A microfiltration membrane is designed to separate blood cells without altering plasma composition. A vapor‐induced phase separation (VIPS) combined with compositional adjustment is used to create a structure‐tuned hemofiltration membrane. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP‐K90), polyethylene glycol (PEG400), and either water or chlorohexidine gluconate (CHG) solution are employed to regulate membrane structure and provide antibacterial enhancement. The preparation conditions involve a 5‐min VIPS process at moderate temperature and high humidity to craft the desired membrane structure. Morphological studies show that the membranes have an asymmetric sponge‐like structure with controlled surface pore sizes that effectively separate blood cells while enabling plasma passage. Complete blood count (CBC) analysis reveals that MH2 and MH3 membranes exhibit significant potential for blood cell separation, with 78% platelet (PLT) separation, 80% red blood cell (RBC) separation, and over 90% white blood cell (WBC) separation. Biochemical analysis of plasma substances confirms that components such as fasting blood sugar (FBS), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, albumin, high‐density lipoprotein, and low‐density lipoproteins pass through the MH series without significant concentration changes. The outcomes suggest that the MH series offers high blood compatibility as evidenced by coagulation times and hemolysis ratio. In addition, MTT data validates the biocompatibility of the membrane. Biofilm inhibition results and biofouling study confirmed that MH series, especially MH2 and MH3 exhibit superior characteristics and performance for plasmapheresis applications.