Metal organic framework nanoparticles loaded- PVDF/chitosan nanofibrous ultrafiltration membranes for the removal of BSA protein and Cr(VI) ions

The UiO-66 NH2 and ZIF-8 metal organic framework nanoparticles (NMOFs) were incorporated into the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofibrous membrane. Then, the chitosan nanofibers were coated on the PVDF nanofibers to produce the PVDF/chitosan nanofibers. The performance of synthesized PVDF/NMOFs single layer and PVDF/chitosan/NMOFs two layers nanofibrous membranes was investigated for BSA protein molecules and Cr(VI) ions separation via ultrafiltration membrane process. The potential of synthesized nanofibers was also examined for BSA and Cr(VI) adsorption in a batch system. The characteristics of synthesized nanofibrous membranes were determined using SEM, EDX, TGA, BET, porosity and water contact angle measurements. The PVDF/chitosan nanofibrous membrane containing 20 wt% UiO-66-NH2, exhibited the maximum water flux of 470 L.m−2 h−1, 98.1% BSA rejection and 95.6% Cr(VI) rejection. The nanofibers were sucessfully regenrated for five adsorption-desorption cycles. The maximum sorption capacities of BSA and Cr(VI) were found to be 574.5 and 602.3 mgg−1, respectively. The obtained results revelaed the high potential of PVDF/chitosan/UiO66-NH2 nanofibers for membrane separation and adsorption of BSA molecules and Cr(VI) ions.