Tailoring next generation membranes for dye removal: A comparative analysis of MOF-Based and nanocomposite architectures using UV analysis

The discharge of Congo red (CR) in textile effluents is a significant environmental concern that necessitates the development of remediation strategies. This study presents the development of a chromium-based metal-organic framework polysulfone membrane (Cr-MOF PSF) via phase inversion for the removal of CR from wastewater using vacuum filtration. The membrane demonstrated structural integrity, exhibited a uniform distribution of MOF dispersion, and achieved a removal efficiency of 75.7% over three operational cycles, exceeding that of a biobased nanocomposite PSF membrane. This superior performance arises from a synergistic mechanism involving enhanced diffusion from the high surface area of the MOF, electrostatic attraction at the Cr 3 + sites, and π-π stacking interactions. This study analyzed MOF and bio-derived NC membranes under energy-free conditions, comparing their reusability and stability over multiple cycles. These findings suggest that these membranes offer a sustainable and effective alternative to conventional approaches, such as ultraviolet- or pressure-reliant systems, for industrial effluent treatment, particularly under energy-constrained conditions. • Developed Chromium based metal organic framework polysulfone membrane • Performed vacuum-driven membrane filtration systemat neutral pH • Employed phase inversion to enable uniform Chromium-metal organic framework • Achieved dual-functionality: high dye adsorption (via electrostatic and π-π interactions) • Provided the first direct comparison of Chromium-metal organic framework