Composite polymeric membrane with entrapped TiO2 nano-sized particles for water treatment: optimized elaboration through a structural and functional characterization

摘要

Recent studies have shown that micro-pollutants like pharmaceutics and endocrine disruptors can be found in surface, ground and even potable waters since their elimination by conventional process in water treatment plants is only partial. Their effect on the endocrinal system can be disastrous, even at very low concentration. Several studies have shown that these organic pollutants can be treated using a photocatalytic membrane reactor. Thanks to an UV irradiation, organic pollutants are transformed, using an oxidant catalyst (like titanium oxide nano-sized particles - TiO2) into non-toxic mineral compounds. The ultrafiltration membrane is used to maintain oxidant in reactor and separate the new product from the catalyst. However, a limitation can be the fouling of the membrane.