Habib Etemadi

This study aims to improve polycarbonate (PC) membrane properties by incorporation of various amounts of polydopamine- modified titanium oxide (TiO 2 -PDA) nanoparticles (0.5–1.5 wt%). Neat PC and composite membranes fabricated were evaluated by a submerged membrane system for the removal of oily wastewater. The results observed from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis demonstrated PDA immobilization on the surfaces of TiO 2 nanoparticles. Moreover, the PC nanocomposite membranes fabricated were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, contact angle, porosity measurement, mechanical analysis and pure water flux. TGA analyses indicated that the degradation temperature of neat PC membrane was increased influenced by the incorporation of TiO 2 -PDA nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. The addition of TiO 2 -PDA nanoparticles led to increase in hydrophilicity and porosity of neat PC membranes. Incorporation of TiO 2 -PDA nanoparticles resulted in forming large pores and macrovoids on the surface and cross-section of the composite membranes. The tensile strength was lessened up to 43% by adding 1.5 wt% TiO 2 -PDA nanoparticles. Among the samples, PC/TiO 2 -PDA-1 nanocomposite membranes revealed higher FRR (76.3%) and lower IFR (23%) with a total organic carbon content of 62.6 mgL −1 .