The Influence of Y2O3 Nanoparticles on the Permeation Properties of Polyethersulfone Membranes

Y2O3 nanoparticles were used in a polyethersulfone (PES) as additives to increase the permeation properties of the polymeric membranes. Membranes were manufactured by diffusion-induced phase inversion in N-methyl-pyrrolidone (NMP) using a different concentration of nanoparticles. Y2O3 is used in polymeric membranes to enhance their functional properties, especially in wastewater treatment processes. Incorporating Y2O3 nanoparticles into the polymer matrix improves the membrane’s hydrophilicity, permeability, and mechanical strength. Additionally, Y2O3 provides better properties and reduces fouling. Recent studies highlight its potential as a modifying agent for advanced composite membranes. This paper investigated challenges in the synthesis of Y2O3-enhanced membranes and links synthesis with performance. It was observed that the composite membranes have better permeation properties by adding a small amount of Y2O3. For membranes at 21 wt.% PES permeability increase from 107 to 112 L/m2h/bar. Fouling performance increases by adding nanoparticles, relative flux decreases by 30% for membranes without nanoparticles and by 10% for membranes with nanoparticles, both at a concentration of 25% PES. Rejection increases for membranes at 21%Pes from 21% for membranes without nanoparticles to 39% for membranes with nanoparticles. The influence of Y2O3 nanoparticles on the membranes' performance was determined by filtration experiments to establish the permeability, fouling, retention, and the water flux; by contact angle to establish the surface hydrophilicity; and by SEM to investigate the membranes' structures.