Composite of Polysulfone with Carbon Nanotube for Manufacturing Ultrafiltration Membrane to Remove Congo Red Dye from Water

Membrane systems are considered simple and environmentally friendly for removing dyes, which are among the most common pollutants in water. Filtration methods have been continuously developed to enhance water resource availability through more efficient processes. In this study, two types of polysulfone (PSU)-based ultrafiltration (UF) membranes, each with a constant composition of 17 wt% PSU, were prepared using the solvent phase inversion method. Composite membrane contained 0.05 wt% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). The membranes were characterized using SEM and optical microscopic techniques, IR spectroscopy, porosimetry, water contact angle measurements, and other methods. As a result, their mechanical properties, microstructure, water flux, and Congo Red dye removal efficiency were then evaluated. The dye concentration was maintained at 100 ppm under pressures ranging from 2 to 7 bars. The results indicate that the composite membrane exhibited increased permeability due to the MWCNT nanoparticles enhancing membrane porosity. Additionally, the casting process significantly influenced nanoparticle distribution, ultimately affecting the membrane’s final performance.