Influence of dominant salts on the removal of trace micropollutants by hollow fiber nanofiltration membranes

Nanofiltration (NF) is seen as a promising advanced treatment technology to deal with the increasing concentration of micropollutants (MPs) in water sources globally. To further improve successful implementation NF, an increased understanding membrane transport mechanisms important. One key aspect among these concerns influence solution composition on overall filtration performance. Although several studies report feed removal by NF membranes, underlying are often not fully understood. In this study, impact dominant salts (NaCl, Na2SO4, MgCl2) trace MPs commercial hollow fiber membranes (dNF40, dNF80) was investigated. Common conditions where salt concentrations greatly exceed MP were applied assess their potential at environmentally relevant concentrations. Experimental observations reveal that alters behaviour substantially. The via electrostatic coupling increases for higher mobility inside membrane. Overall, mobility, i.e. lower removal, through dNF80 observed. Correspondingly, strongest observed membrane, positively charged atenolol from about 60% >90% presence Na2SO4. A theoretical model (DSPM&DE) used assist interpretation experimental further. Model predictions relevance two effects: charge-based properties and form arising potential.