Removal of NOMs by Carbon Nanotubes/Polysulfone Nanocomposite Hollow Fiber Membranes for the Control of Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs)

It has been well established that natural organic matters (NOMs) are precursors for the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) in drinking water supplies, thus removal NOMs is often used as an effective approach to limit DBPs production. In this study, we evaluated application oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (OMWNTs)/polysulfone (PSU) nanocomposite hollow fiber membranes (HFM) and its impact on production following chlorination. Analysis source samples by fluorescence excitation/emission matrix (EEM) spectrometry indicated dominant dissolved were humic acid. Evaluation fabricated HFMs showed improved fluxes (30~50%), better fouling resistance, a comparable solute rejection rate when compared with conventional PSU membranes. The flux increase was attributed increased surface hydrophilicity porosity membrane after embedding hydrophilic OMWNTs. filtration resulted reduction UV254 approximately 52%, 48%, 38% three from Missouri River, Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, Columbia Water Treatment Plant, respectively. corresponding trihalomethane potential (THMFP) reached 40%, 70%, 27%, Overall, study demonstrated proper OMWNTs/PSU ultrafiltration could remove portion at relatively low cross-membrane pressure. also illustrates innovative concept design be tailored specific quality conditions regulatory requirements; particular case, fabricate reduce THMFP level meets standards trihalomethanes disinfected chlorine.