Page 477 - Polymer-based Nanocomposites for Energy and Environmental Applications

430 Polymer-based Nanocomposites for Energy and Environmental Applications

with the traditional separation methods such as mechanical separation, filtration,
and chemical deemulsification, ultrafiltration or microfiltration in combination with
ceramic membranes is one of the most effective separation methods. In the literature,
ZrO 2 membranes display better separation performance such as higher flux, less
fouling, and higher oil elimination compared with other membranes [179,180].
In order to replace the current membranes, great efforts have been devoted to
developing novel alternative composite membranes. These membranes include metal
oxide microfiltration membranes.
Yang et al. [181] developed composite tube-shaped membranes by employing sus-
pensions of ZrO 2 particles to make sure separation of top layers on two different
porous α-alumina supports and heating the coated supports to partly sinter the particles
of the top layers. The effect of environmental conditions on the synthesis procedure of
ZrO 2 /α-Al 2 O 3 membranes was investigated. For ZrO 2 membrane on symmetrical and
asymmetrical Al 2 O 3 support, the ZrO 2 membrane pore diameter was found nearby
0.2 mm using gas bubble pressure method, and the pure water flux was about 400
2
and 1500 L/(m h bar), respectively. To separate oil-water emulsion acquired from
steelworks, ZrO 2 membrane and three dissimilar alumina membranes were
implemented in order to evaluate the permeability and separation properties. Results
revealed that the ZrO 2 /a-Al 2 O 3 MF membrane was the most efficient and preferred
membrane.
Last year’s great efforts were made in membrane technology in order to search out
some novel eco-friendly and economical porous ceramic materials [182].
To solve this issue, Bouzerara et al. [183] developed ceramic supports using
Algerian natural materials, where the top layer of membrane was prepared from
ZrO 2 for microfiltration application. Microfiltration ZrO 2 membranes were accumu-
lated on the tubular supports, employing slip-casting method. The study revealed that
the average pore size of the membrane and its thickness were found nearby 0.16 and
25 μm, respectively. Likewise, the fabricated membrane was tried with distilled water
using cross flow microfiltration method. Results displayed excellent conductivity,
retention of turbidity, and total dissolved solids (TDS) in permeate.

15.13 Conclusion

In this book chapter, we summarize almost all aspects of nanocomposite membranes
for environmental remediation, which cover novel synthesis and fabrication proce-
dure, proper modifications, and even their latest developments. Nanotechnology has
been incorporated with many applications, biologic and biomedical. Nanomaterials
are also developing as innovative and stimulating tools in environmental risk assess-
ment and observing and finding new applications in wastewater treatment. For water
remediation purposes, the availability of such huge amounts of nanomaterials at
economically feasible prices can be a stern barrier for industrial applications.
Nanomaterials, with their unique chemical and physical properties, are an optimum
solution upon efficiency and safety assurance. Further research can be conducted
on refining the functional properties of nanomaterials to meet the useful requirements