Analytical review of PAN/PVDF polymer membranes for wastewater treatment applications

This study examined recent applications of polyacrylonitrile/polyvinylidene fluoride (PAN/PVDF)-based polymer membranes in wastewater treatment processes. The incorporation of hydroxylamine, zinc oxide, and iron (III) oxide-hydroxide into PAN/PVDF membranes effectively eliminated different metal ions, including copper, lead (II), and cadmium ions, from contaminated water, with more than 75% removal efficiency, while hydrophilic nanoparticles such as zeolite, silica aerogel, and polyvinylpyrrolidone facilitated the removal of organic solvents and dyes from various polluted waters. The membrane’s pore structure was enhanced by imbedded, well-dispersed zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) due to the synergistic effect of sulfate radical generation and pore structure, resulting in a high level of dye removal efficiency. The integration of antibacterial agents within the PAN/PVDF polymer matrix had a significant impact on the membrane antibacterial activities against microorganisms, including E. coli, S. aureus, and E. faecalis. However, exceeding the optimal doping rates of the nanoparticles decreased the inhibitory capabilities and caused agglomeration on the membrane surface. Although PAN/PVDF membranes are extensively applied in wastewater treatment, further study is required, especially for long-term operational stability, environmental sustainability, and the transition from laboratory-scale methods to commercial applications.