Doping silver nanoparticles into reverse osmosis membranes for antibacterial properties

Abstract Polyamide composite reverse osmosis (RO) membranes occupy an important position in water treatment. However, membrane fouling, especially biofouling, can lead to a significant decrease permeability. Therefore, reducing biological contamination is and property of RO membrane. In this article, hypothesis on the development new kind for antibacterial purposes was prepared by modification gallic acid (GA) silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Then, experiments were carried out verify hypothesis, getting modified with GA@AgNPs. The flux GA@AgNPs 31.1 L·m −2 ·h −1 , which 46.7% higher than that original membrane, while rejection rate salt remained at 93.8–97.6%. Moreover, exhibited outstanding properties more 99.9% efficiency against both Escherichia coli Staphylococcus aureus . Our work provides idea solving problem biofouling membranes.