Pervaporation Mixed Matrix Membranes from Sodium Alginate/ZnO for Isopropanol Dehydration

to improve stability in aqueous solutions, and supported membranes were developed for prospective applications by applying this composite onto the prepared porous cellulose acetate (CA) substrate. This developed cross-linked supported NaAlg-ZnO(5%)/CA membrane had a permeation flux increased by 2 times or more compared to a dense NaAlg membrane during dehydration of IPA (12-30 wt.% water) with a permeate water content above 99 wt.%. The integrated experimental-theoretical approach provides mechanistic insight into ZnO-NaAlg interactions and demonstrates the strong potential of these mixed matrix membranes for high-efficiency alcohol dehydration, offering a rational design paradigm for next-generation pervaporation membranes.