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Membranes, Volume 13, Issue 4 (April 2023) – 88 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): In this article, we discuss the possible mechanism of fast cargo release from a new type of pH-sensitive liposomes with embedded ampholytic molecular switch (AMS, 3-(isobutylamino)cholan-24-oic acid) with carboxylic anionic groups and isobutylamino cationic ones attached to the opposite ends of the steroid core. AMS-containing liposomes have demonstrated excellent speed of the encapsulated substance release under altering the pH of outer solution, but the exact mechanism of the switch action has not yet been accurately determined. Here, we report on the details of fast cargo release based on data obtained via ATR-FTIR spectroscopy as well as atomistic molecular modeling. The findings of this study are promising for potential biomedical application of AMS-containing pH-sensitive liposomes. View this paper
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23 pages, 3758 KiB  
Review
Modulation of the Dipole Potential of Model Lipid Membranes with Phytochemicals: Molecular Mechanisms, Structure–Activity Relationships, and Implications in Reconstituted Ion Channels
by Svetlana S. Efimova and Olga S. Ostroumova
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 453; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040453 - 21 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1544
Abstract
Phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, stilbenoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and related compounds, have a wide range of useful pharmacological properties which cannot be ascribed to binding to a single peptide or protein target alone. Due to the relatively high lipophilicity of phytochemicals, the lipid membrane [...] Read more.
Phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, stilbenoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and related compounds, have a wide range of useful pharmacological properties which cannot be ascribed to binding to a single peptide or protein target alone. Due to the relatively high lipophilicity of phytochemicals, the lipid membrane is thought to mediate their effects via changes in the properties of the lipid matrix, in particular, by modulating the transmembrane distribution of the electrical potential and, consequently, the formation and functioning of the ion channels reconstituted in the lipid bilayers. Therefore, biophysical studies on the interactions between plant metabolites and model lipid membranes are still of interest. This review represents an attempt to provide a critical analysis of a variety of studies on altering membranes and ion channels with phytochemicals via disturbing the potential drop at the membrane–aqueous solution interface. Critical structural motifs and functioning groups in the molecules of plant polyphenols (alkaloids and saponins are identified) and the possible mechanisms of dipole potential modulation with phytochemicals are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Models of Biological Membranes)
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14 pages, 5701 KiB  
Article
Alleviating Ultrafiltration Membrane Fouling Caused by Effluent Organic Matter Using Pre-Ozonation: A Perspective of EEM and Molecular Weight Distribution
by Kuo Gao, Hong Yang, Haichen Liu and Bingzhi Dong
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 452; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040452 - 21 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1178
Abstract
Wastewater reclamation has gradually become an important way to cope with the global water crisis. Ultrafiltration plays an imperative part as a safeguard for the aim but is often limited by membrane fouling. Effluent organic matter (EfOM) has been known to be a [...] Read more.
Wastewater reclamation has gradually become an important way to cope with the global water crisis. Ultrafiltration plays an imperative part as a safeguard for the aim but is often limited by membrane fouling. Effluent organic matter (EfOM) has been known to be a major foulant during ultrafiltration. Hence, the primary aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pre-ozonation on the membrane fouling caused by EfOM in secondary wastewater effluents. In addition, the physicochemical property changes of EfOM during pre-ozonation and the subsequent influence on membrane fouling were systemically investigated. The combined fouling model and the morphology of fouled membrane were adopted to scrutinize the fouling alleviation mechanism by pre-ozonation. It was found that membrane fouling by EfOM was dominated by hydraulically reversible fouling. In addition, an obvious fouling reduction was achieved by pre-ozonation with 1.0 mg O3/mg DOC. The resistance results showed that the normalized hydraulically reversible resistance was reduced by ~60%. The water quality analysis indicated that ozone degraded high molecular weight organics such as microbial metabolites and aromatic protein and medium molecular weight organics (humic acid-like) into smaller fractions and formed a looser fouling layer on the membrane surface. Furthermore, pre-ozonation made the cake layer foul towards pore blocking, thereby reducing fouling. In addition, there was a little degradation in the pollutant removal performance with pre-ozonation. The DOC removal rate decreased by more than 18%, while UV254 decreased by more than 20%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Membrane Separation Technology Research)
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17 pages, 3299 KiB  
Article
Merging Proline:Xylitol Eutectic Solvent in Crosslinked Chitosan Pervaporation Membranes for Enhanced Water Permeation in Dehydrating Ethanol
by Roberto Castro-Muñoz, Maksymilian Plata-Gryl and Grzegorz Boczkaj
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040451 - 21 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1340
Abstract
The scope of this research aims at merging a new deep eutectic mixture (DES) into a biopolymer-based membrane for a pervaporation application in dehydrating ethanol. Herein, an L-proline:xylitol (at 5:1) eutectic mixture was successfully synthesized and blended with chitosan (CS). A complete characterization [...] Read more.
The scope of this research aims at merging a new deep eutectic mixture (DES) into a biopolymer-based membrane for a pervaporation application in dehydrating ethanol. Herein, an L-proline:xylitol (at 5:1) eutectic mixture was successfully synthesized and blended with chitosan (CS). A complete characterization of the hybrid membranes, in terms of morphology, solvent uptake, and hydrophilicity, has been conducted. As part of their applicability, the blended membranes were assayed for their ability to separate water from ethanolic solutions by means of pervaporation. At the highest temperature (50 °C), a water permeation of ca. 0.46 kg m−2 h−1 was acquired, representing a higher permeation than the pristine CS membranes (ca. 0.37 kg m−2 h−1). Therefore, CS membranes demonstrated an enhanced water permeation thanks to their blending with the hydrophilic L-proline:xylitol agent, making these membranes a good candidate for other separations containing polar solvents. Full article
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15 pages, 1715 KiB  
Article
A Novel Hybrid Membrane Process Coupled with Freeze Concentration for Phosphorus Recovery from Cheese Whey
by Ipan Hidayat, Lidia Paredes, Pablo M. Binder, Nagore Guerra-Gorostegi, Mabel Mora, Sergio Ponsá, Darren L. Oatley-Radcliffe and Laia Llenas
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 450; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040450 - 21 Apr 2023
Viewed by 2044
Abstract
The ever-increasing demand for phosphorus fertilisers for securing global food production, coupled with finite phosphate rock reserves, is one of the emerging problems in the world. Indeed, phosphate rock is listed as an EU critical raw material, triggering attention to find an alternative [...] Read more.
The ever-increasing demand for phosphorus fertilisers for securing global food production, coupled with finite phosphate rock reserves, is one of the emerging problems in the world. Indeed, phosphate rock is listed as an EU critical raw material, triggering attention to find an alternative source to substitute the use of this limited resource. Cheese whey, characterized by a high content of organic matter and phosphorus, represents a promising feedstock for phosphorus recovery and recycling. An innovative application of a membrane system coupled with freeze concentration was assessed to recover phosphorus from cheese whey. The performances of a microfiltration membrane (0.2 µm) and an ultrafiltration (200 kDa) membrane were evaluated and optimized under different transmembrane pressures and crossflow velocities. Once the optimal operating conditions were determined, a pre-treatment including lactic acid acidification and centrifugation was applied to increase the permeate recovery. Finally, the efficiency of progressive freeze concentration for the treatment of the permeate obtained from the optimum conditions (UF 200 kDa with TMP of 3 bar, CFV of 1 m/s and lactic acid acidification) was evaluated at specific operating conditions (−5 °C and 600 rpm of stirring speed). Finally, 70% of phosphorus could be recovered from cheese whey using the coupled technology of the membrane system and freeze concentration. A phosphorus-rich product was obtained with high agronomic value, which constitutes a further step towards establishing a broader circular economy framework. Full article
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19 pages, 2025 KiB  
Article
Quantitative Assessment of Interfacial Interactions Governing Ultrafiltration Membrane Fouling by the Mixture of Silica Nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) and Natural Organic Matter (NOM): Effects of Solution Chemistry
by Yuqi Sun, Runze Zhang, Chunyi Sun, Zhipeng Liu, Jian Zhang, Shuang Liang and Xia Wang
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 449; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040449 - 21 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1111
Abstract
Mixtures of silica nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) and natural organic matter (NOM) are ubiquitous in natural aquatic environments and pose risks to organisms. Ultrafiltration (UF) membranes can effectively remove SiO2 NP–NOM mixtures. However, the corresponding membrane fouling mechanisms, particularly under different solution [...] Read more.
Mixtures of silica nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) and natural organic matter (NOM) are ubiquitous in natural aquatic environments and pose risks to organisms. Ultrafiltration (UF) membranes can effectively remove SiO2 NP–NOM mixtures. However, the corresponding membrane fouling mechanisms, particularly under different solution conditions, have not yet been studied. In this work, the effect of solution chemistry on polyethersulfone (PES) UF membrane fouling caused by a SiO2 NP–NOM mixture was investigated at different pH levels, ionic strengths, and calcium concentrations. The corresponding membrane fouling mechanisms, i.e., Lifshitz–van der Waals (LW), electrostatic (EL), and acid–base (AB) interactions, were quantitatively evaluated using the extended Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek (xDLVO) theory. It was found that the extent of membrane fouling increased with decreasing pH, increasing ionic strength, and increasing calcium concentration. The attractive AB interaction between the clean/fouled membrane and foulant was the major fouling mechanism in both the initial adhesion and later cohesion stages, while the attractive LW and repulsive EL interactions were less important. The change of fouling potential with solution chemistry was negatively correlated with the calculated interaction energy, indicating that the UF membrane fouling behavior under different solution conditions can be effectively explained and predicted using the xDLVO theory. Full article
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13 pages, 2499 KiB  
Article
Performance of TiO2-Based Tubular Membranes in the Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Compounds
by Carmen Barquín, Aranza Vital-Grappin, Izumi Kumakiri, Nazely Diban, Maria J. Rivero, Ane Urtiaga and Inmaculada Ortiz
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 448; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040448 - 20 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1593
Abstract
This work presents the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants in water with TiO2 and TiO2/Ag membranes prepared by immobilising photocatalysts on ceramic porous tubular supports. The permeation capacity of TiO2 and TiO2/Ag membranes was checked before the [...] Read more.
This work presents the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants in water with TiO2 and TiO2/Ag membranes prepared by immobilising photocatalysts on ceramic porous tubular supports. The permeation capacity of TiO2 and TiO2/Ag membranes was checked before the photocatalytic application, showing high water fluxes (≈758 and 690 L m−2 h−1 bar−1, respectively) and <2% rejection against the model pollutants sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (DBS) and dichloroacetic acid (DCA). When the membranes were submerged in the aqueous solutions and irradiated with UV-A LEDs, the photocatalytic performance factors for the degradation of DCA were similar to those obtained with suspended TiO2 particles (1.1-fold and 1.2-fold increase, respectively). However, when the aqueous solution permeated through the pores of the photocatalytic membrane, the performance factors and kinetics were two-fold higher than for the submerged membranes, mostly due to the enhanced contact between the pollutants and the membranes photocatalytic sites where reactive species were generated. These results confirm the advantages of working in a flow-through mode with submerged photocatalytic membranes for the treatment of water polluted with persistent organic molecules, thanks to the reduction in the mass transfer limitations. Full article
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15 pages, 11453 KiB  
Article
Characterization of New Polymer Material of Amino-β-Cyclodextrin and Sodium Alginate for Environmental Purposes
by Kinga Kozieł-Trąbska, Sandra Żarska, Tomasz Girek and Wojciech Ciesielski
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 447; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040447 - 19 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1196
Abstract
The β-cyclodextrin polymer (PβCD) cross-linked with pyromellitic dianhydride (PD) and functionalized with an amino group (PAβCD) was introduced into a matrix made of sodium alginate (SA). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed a homogeneous surface of the composite material. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) testing [...] Read more.
The β-cyclodextrin polymer (PβCD) cross-linked with pyromellitic dianhydride (PD) and functionalized with an amino group (PAβCD) was introduced into a matrix made of sodium alginate (SA). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed a homogeneous surface of the composite material. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) testing of the PAβCD confirmed polymer formation. The tested polymer increased its solubility relative to the polymer without the amino group. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed the stability of the system. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed the chemical binding of PAβCD and SA. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC-SEC) showed high cross-linking of PAβCD and allowed for accurate determination of its weight. The formation of the composite material such as PAβCD introduced into a matrix made of sodium alginate (SA) has several potential environmental implications, including the use of sustainable materials, reduced waste generation, reduced toxicity, and improved solubility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Inclusion Membrane in Industrial Application)
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6 pages, 1071 KiB  
Communication
Binding Behavior between Transforming-Growth-Factor-Beta1 and Its Receptor Reconstituted in Biomimetic Membranes
by Gounhanul Shin, Kunn Hadinoto, Sungmun Lee and Jin-Won Park
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040446 - 19 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 668
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is critical to cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. It is important to understand the binding affinity between TGF-β1 and its receptors. In this study, their binding force was measured using an atomic force microscope. Significant adhesion was induced [...] Read more.
Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is critical to cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. It is important to understand the binding affinity between TGF-β1 and its receptors. In this study, their binding force was measured using an atomic force microscope. Significant adhesion was induced by the interaction between the TGF-β1 immobilized on the tip and its receptor reconstituted in the bilayer. Rupture and adhesive failure occurred at a specific force around 0.4~0.5 nN. The relationship of the force to loading rate was used to estimate the displacement where the rupture occurred. The binding was also monitored in real time with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and interpreted with kinetics to acquire the rate constant. Using the Langmuir adsorption, the SPR data were analyzed to estimate equilibrium and association constants to be approximately 107 M−1 and 106 M−1 s−1. These results indicated that the natural release of the binding seldom occurred. Furthermore, the degree of binding dissociation, confirmed by the rupture interpretation, supported that the reverse of the binding hardly happened. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Models of Biological Membranes)
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18 pages, 4239 KiB  
Article
Fabrication and Evaluation of Filtration Membranes from Industrial Polymer Waste
by Saleheen Bano, Mukesh Pednekar, Saranya Rameshkumar, Dipu Borah, Michael A. Morris, Ramesh Babu Padamati and Niamh Cronly
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040445 - 19 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1147
Abstract
Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymers are known for their diverse range of industrial applications and are considered important raw materials for membrane manufacturing. In view of circularity and resource efficiency, the present work mainly deals with the reusability of waste polymer ‘gels’ produced during [...] Read more.
Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymers are known for their diverse range of industrial applications and are considered important raw materials for membrane manufacturing. In view of circularity and resource efficiency, the present work mainly deals with the reusability of waste polymer ‘gels’ produced during the manufacturing of PVDF membranes. Herein, solidified PVDF gels were first prepared from polymer solutions as model waste gels, which were then subsequently used to prepare membranes via the phase inversion process. The structural analysis of fabricated membranes confirmed the retention of molecular integrity even after reprocessing, whereas the morphological analysis showed a symmetric bi-continuous porous structure. The filtration performance of membranes fabricated from waste gels was studied in a crossflow assembly. The results demonstrate the feasibility of gel-derived membranes as potential microfiltration membranes exhibiting a pure water flux of 478 LMH with a mean pore size of ~0.2 µm. To further evaluate industrial applicability, the performance of the membranes was tested in the clarification of industrial wastewater, and the membranes showed good recyclability with about 52% flux recovery. The performance of gel-derived membranes thus demonstrates the recycling of waste polymer gels for improving the sustainability of membrane fabrication processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Processing and Engineering)
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14 pages, 4687 KiB  
Article
Constructing Gas Transmission Pathways in Two-Dimensional Composite Material ZIF-8@BNNS Mixed-Matrix Membranes to Enhance CO2/N2 Separation Performance
by Fei Guo, Wu Xiao, Canghai Ma, Xuehua Ruan, Gaohong He, Hanli Wang, Zhendong Yang and Xiaobin Jiang
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040444 - 19 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1433
Abstract
Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, due to their high aspect ratio and high specific surface area, which provide a more tortuous pathway for larger gas molecules, are frequently used in membrane separation. However, in mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs), the high aspect ratio and high specific surface [...] Read more.
Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, due to their high aspect ratio and high specific surface area, which provide a more tortuous pathway for larger gas molecules, are frequently used in membrane separation. However, in mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs), the high aspect ratio and high specific surface area of 2D fillers can increase transport resistance, thereby reducing the permeability of gas molecules. In this work, we combine boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) with ZIF-8 nanoparticles to develop a novel material, ZIF-8@BNNS, to improve both CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity. Growth of ZIF-8 nanoparticles on the BNNS surface is achieved using an in-situ growth method where the amino groups of BNNS are complexed with Zn2+, creating gas transmission pathways that accelerate CO2 transmission. The 2D-BNNS material acts as a barrier in MMMs to improve CO2/N2 selectivity. The MMMs with a 20 wt.% ZIF-8@BNNS loading achieved a CO2 permeability of 106.5 Barrer and CO2/N2 selectivity of 83.2, surpassing the Robeson upper bound (2008) and demonstrating that MOF layers can efficiently reduce mass transfer resistance and enhance gas separation performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development and Application of Membrane Separation Processes)
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12 pages, 6643 KiB  
Article
Hydrophobic Modified Ceramic Aeration Membrane for Effective Treatment of Brine Wastewater
by Xinqiang Xu, Hua Zhang and Jiang Jin
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040443 - 19 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1035
Abstract
A novel approach to evaporate brine wastewater using a ceramic aeration membrane was proposed. A high-porosity ceramic membrane was selected as the aeration membrane and was modified with hydrophobic modifiers to avoid undesired surface wetting. The water contact angle of the ceramic aeration [...] Read more.
A novel approach to evaporate brine wastewater using a ceramic aeration membrane was proposed. A high-porosity ceramic membrane was selected as the aeration membrane and was modified with hydrophobic modifiers to avoid undesired surface wetting. The water contact angle of the ceramic aeration membrane reached 130° after hydrophobic modification. The hydrophobic ceramic aeration membrane showed excellent operational stability (up to 100 h), high salinity (25 wt.%) tolerance, and excellent regeneration performance. The evaporative rate reached 98 kg m−2 h−1, which could be restored by ultrasonic cleaning after the membrane fouling occurred. Furthermore, this novel approach shows great promise for practical applications toward a low cost of only 66 kW·h·m−3. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Applications)
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12 pages, 22174 KiB  
Article
Real Space and Time Imaging of Collective Headgroup Dipole Motions in Zwitterionic Lipid Bilayers
by Dima Bolmatov, C. Patrick Collier, Dmitry Zav’yalov, Takeshi Egami and John Katsaras
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040442 - 18 Apr 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1710
Abstract
Lipid bilayers are supramolecular structures responsible for a range of processes, such as transmembrane transport of ions and solutes, and sorting and replication of genetic materials, to name just a few. Some of these processes are transient and currently, cannot be visualized in [...] Read more.
Lipid bilayers are supramolecular structures responsible for a range of processes, such as transmembrane transport of ions and solutes, and sorting and replication of genetic materials, to name just a few. Some of these processes are transient and currently, cannot be visualized in real space and time. Here, we developed an approach using 1D, 2D, and 3D Van Hove correlation functions to image collective headgroup dipole motions in zwitterionic phospholipid bilayers. We show that both 2D and 3D spatiotemporal images of headgroup dipoles are consistent with commonly understood dynamic features of fluids. However, analysis of the 1D Van Hove function reveals lateral transient and re-emergent collective dynamics of the headgroup dipoles—occurring at picosecond time scales—that transmit and dissipate heat at longer times, due to relaxation processes. At the same time, the headgroup dipoles also generate membrane surface undulations due a collective tilting of the headgroup dipoles. A continuous intensity band of headgroup dipole spatiotemporal correlations—at nanometer length and nanosecond time scales—indicates that dipoles undergo stretching and squeezing elastic deformations. Importantly, the above mentioned intrinsic headgroup dipole motions can be externally stimulated at GHz-frequency scale, enhancing their flexoelectric and piezoelectric capabilities (i.e., increased conversion efficiency of mechanical energy into electric energy). In conclusion, we discuss how lipid membranes can provide molecular-level insights about biological learning and memory, and as platforms for the development of the next generation of neuromorphic computers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Symmetric and Asymmetric Lipid Membranes)
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19 pages, 7338 KiB  
Review
Optical Properties of Electrospun Nanofiber Mats
by Tomasz Blachowicz and Andrea Ehrmann
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040441 - 18 Apr 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1776
Abstract
Electrospun nanofiber mats are usually applied in fields where their high specific surface area and small pore sizes are important, such as biotechnology or filtration. Optically, they are mostly white due to scattering from the irregularly distributed, thin nanofibers. Nevertheless, their optical properties [...] Read more.
Electrospun nanofiber mats are usually applied in fields where their high specific surface area and small pore sizes are important, such as biotechnology or filtration. Optically, they are mostly white due to scattering from the irregularly distributed, thin nanofibers. Nevertheless, their optical properties can be modified and become highly important for different applications, e.g., in sensing devices or solar cells, and sometimes for investigating their electronic or mechanical properties. This review gives an overview of typical optical properties of electrospun nanofiber mats, such as absorption and transmission, fluorescence and phosphorescence, scattering, polarized emission, dyeing and bathochromic shift as well as the correlation with dielectric constants and the extinction coefficient, showing which effects may occur and can be measured by which instruments or used for different applications. Full article
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16 pages, 2231 KiB  
Review
A Practical Guide to Preparation and Applications of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles Formed via Centrifugation of Water-in-Oil Emulsion Droplets
by Yiting Zhang, Haruto Obuchi and Taro Toyota
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 440; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040440 - 18 Apr 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4011
Abstract
Giant vesicles (GVs), which are closed lipid bilayer membranes with a diameter of more than 1 μm, have attracted attention not only as model cell membranes but also for the construction of artificial cells. For encapsulating water-soluble materials and/or water-dispersible particles or functionalizing [...] Read more.
Giant vesicles (GVs), which are closed lipid bilayer membranes with a diameter of more than 1 μm, have attracted attention not only as model cell membranes but also for the construction of artificial cells. For encapsulating water-soluble materials and/or water-dispersible particles or functionalizing membrane proteins and/or other synthesized amphiphiles, giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) have been applied in various fields, such as supramolecular chemistry, soft matter physics, life sciences, and bioengineering. In this review, we focus on a preparation technique for GUVs that encapsulate water-soluble materials and/or water-dispersible particles. It is based on the centrifugation of a water-in-oil emulsion layered on water and does not require special equipment other than a centrifuge, which makes it the first choice for laboratory use. Furthermore, we review recent studies on GUV-based artificial cells prepared using this technique and discuss their future applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Analysis and Applications of Membrane Lipids)
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19 pages, 3602 KiB  
Article
Sn and Ge Complexes with Redox-Active Ligands as Efficient Interfacial Membrane-like Buffer Layers for p-i-n Perovskite Solar Cells
by Azat F. Akbulatov, Anna Y. Akyeva, Pavel G. Shangin, Nikita A. Emelianov, Irina V. Krylova, Mariya O. Markova, Liliya D. Labutskaya, Alexander V. Mumyatov, Egor I. Tuzharov, Dmitry A. Bunin, Lyubov A. Frolova, Mikhail P. Egorov, Mikhail A. Syroeshkin and Pavel A. Troshin
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040439 - 17 Apr 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1791
Abstract
Inverted perovskite solar cells with a p-i-n configuration have attracted considerable attention from the research community because of their simple design, insignificant hysteresis, improved operational stability, and low-temperature fabrication technology. However, this type of device is still lagging behind the classical n-i-p perovskite [...] Read more.
Inverted perovskite solar cells with a p-i-n configuration have attracted considerable attention from the research community because of their simple design, insignificant hysteresis, improved operational stability, and low-temperature fabrication technology. However, this type of device is still lagging behind the classical n-i-p perovskite solar cells in terms of its power conversion efficiency. The performance of p-i-n perovskite solar cells can be increased using appropriate charge transport and buffer interlayers inserted between the main electron transport layer and top metal electrode. In this study, we addressed this challenge by designing a series of tin and germanium coordination complexes with redox-active ligands as promising interlayers for perovskite solar cells. The obtained compounds were characterized by X-ray single-crystal diffraction and/or NMR spectroscopy, and their optical and electrochemical properties were thoroughly studied. The efficiency of perovskite solar cells was improved from a reference value of 16.4% to 18.0–18.6%, using optimized interlayers of the tin complexes with salicylimine (1) or 2,3-dihydroxynaphthalene (2) ligands, and the germanium complex with the 2,3-dihydroxyphenazine ligand (4). The IR s-SNOM mapping revealed that the best-performing interlayers form uniform and pinhole-free coatings atop the PC61BM electron-transport layer, which improves the charge extraction to the top metal electrode. The obtained results feature the potential of using tin and germanium complexes as prospective materials for improving the performance of perovskite solar cells. Full article
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15 pages, 3246 KiB  
Article
Genomic Insights into Bacterial Resistance to Proline-Rich Antimicrobial Peptide Bac7
by Pavel V. Panteleev, Victoria N. Safronova, Roman N. Kruglikov, Ilia A. Bolosov and Tatiana V. Ovchinnikova
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 438; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040438 - 17 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1333
Abstract
Proline-rich antimicrobial peptides (PrAMPs) having a potent antimicrobial activity and a modest toxicity toward mammalian cells attract much attention as new templates for the development of antibiotic drugs. However, a comprehensive understanding of mechanisms of bacterial resistance development to PrAMPs is necessary before [...] Read more.
Proline-rich antimicrobial peptides (PrAMPs) having a potent antimicrobial activity and a modest toxicity toward mammalian cells attract much attention as new templates for the development of antibiotic drugs. However, a comprehensive understanding of mechanisms of bacterial resistance development to PrAMPs is necessary before their clinical application. In this study, development of the resistance to the proline-rich bovine cathelicidin Bac71-22 derivative was characterized in the multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli clinical isolate causing the urinary tract infection. Three Bac71-22-resistant strains with ≥16-fold increase in minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were selected by serially passaging after four-week experimental evolution. It was shown that in salt-containing medium, the resistance was mediated by inactivation of the SbmA transporter. The absence of salt in the selection media affected both dynamics and main molecular targets under selective pressure: a point mutation leading to the amino acid substitution N159H in the WaaP kinase responsible for heptose I phosphorylation in the LPS structure was also found. This mutation led to a phenotype with a decreased susceptibility to both the Bac71-22 and polymyxin B. Screening of antimicrobial activities with the use of a wide panel of known AMPs, including the human cathelicidin LL-37 and conventional antibiotics, against selected strains indicated no significant cross-resistance effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Studies on Membrane-Targeting Antimicrobial Peptides)
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18 pages, 8424 KiB  
Article
Aliquots of MIL-140 and Graphene in Smart PNIPAM Mixed Hydrogels: A Nanoenvironment for a More Eco-Friendly Treatment of NaCl and Humic Acid Mixtures by Membrane Distillation
by Giuseppe Di Luca, Guining Chen, Wanqin Jin and Annarosa Gugliuzza
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 437; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040437 - 17 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1422
Abstract
The problem of water scarcity is already serious and risks becoming dramatic in terms of human health as well as environmental safety. Recovery of freshwater by means of eco-friendly technologies is an urgent matter. Membrane distillation (MD) is an accredited green operation for [...] Read more.
The problem of water scarcity is already serious and risks becoming dramatic in terms of human health as well as environmental safety. Recovery of freshwater by means of eco-friendly technologies is an urgent matter. Membrane distillation (MD) is an accredited green operation for water purification, but a viable and sustainable solution to the problem needs to be concerned with every step of the process, including managed amounts of materials, membrane fabrication procedures, and cleaning practices. Once it is established that MD technology is sustainable, a good strategy would also be concerned with the choice of managing low amounts of functional materials for membrane manufacturing. These materials are to be rearranged in interfaces so as to generate nanoenvironments wherein local events, conceived to be crucial for the success and sustainability of the separation, can take place without endangering the ecosystem. In this work, discrete and random supramolecular complexes based on smart poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAM) mixed hydrogels with aliquots of ZrO(O2C-C10H6-CO2) (MIL-140) and graphene have been produced on a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) sublayer and have been proven to enhance the performance of PVDF membranes for MD operations. Two-dimensional materials have been adhered to the membrane surface through combined wet solvent (WS) and layer-by-layer (LbL) spray deposition without requiring further subnanometer-scale size adjustment. The creation of a dual responsive nanoenvironment has enabled the cooperative events needed for water purification. According to the MD’s rules, a permanent hydrophobic state of the hydrogels together with a great ability of 2D materials to assist water vapor diffusion through the membranes has been targeted. The chance to switch the density of charge at the membrane–aqueous solution interface has further allowed for the choice of greener and more efficient self-cleaning procedures with a full recovery of the permeation properties of the engineered membranes. The experimental evidence of this work confirms the suitability of the proposed approach to obtain distinct effects on a future production of reusable water from hypersaline streams under somewhat soft working conditions and in full respect to environmental sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Application of Advanced Functional Membranes)
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16 pages, 3869 KiB  
Article
Interaction of Hyaluronan Acid with Some Proteins in Aqueous Solution as Studied by NMR
by Daria Melnikova, Catherine Khisravashirova, Tatiana Smotrina and Vladimir Skirda
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040436 - 15 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1273
Abstract
According to actual literature data, hyaluronic acid (HA) that is presented in the extracellular matrix can interact with proteins and thereby affect several important functions of the cell membrane. The purpose of this work was to reveal the features of the interaction of [...] Read more.
According to actual literature data, hyaluronic acid (HA) that is presented in the extracellular matrix can interact with proteins and thereby affect several important functions of the cell membrane. The purpose of this work was to reveal the features of the interaction of HA with proteins using the PFG NMR method by sampling two systems: aqueous solutions of HA with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and aqueous solutions of HA with hen egg-white lysozyme (HEWL). It was found that the presence of BSA in the HA aqueous solution initiates a certain additional mechanism; as a result, the population of HA molecules in the gel structure increases to almost 100%. At the same time, for an aqueous solution of HA/HEWL, even in the range of low (0.01–0.2%) HEWL contents, strong signs of degradation (depolymerization) of some HA macromolecules were observed such that they lost the ability to form a gel. Moreover, lysozyme molecules form a strong complex with degraded HA molecules and lose their enzymatic function. Thus, the presence of HA molecules in the intercellular matrix, as well as in the state associated with the surface of the cell membrane, can, in addition to the known ones, perform one more important function: the function of protecting the cell membrane from the destructive action of lysozymes. The obtained results are important for understanding the mechanism and features of the interaction of extracellular matrix glycosaminoglycan with cell membrane proteins. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Physics and Theory)
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20 pages, 3961 KiB  
Article
Influence of Pomelo (Citrus maxima) Pericarp Essential Oil on the Physicochemical Properties of HomChaiya Rice (Oryza sativa L. cv. HomChaiya) Flour-Derived Edible Films
by Karthikeyan Venkatachalam and Narin Charoenphun
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040435 - 15 Apr 2023
Viewed by 1669
Abstract
The food industry is increasingly interested in using active edible packaging to address environmental problems caused by conventional synthetic polymers, such as pollution and degradation. The present study took advantage of this opportunity to develop active edible packaging using Hom-Chaiya rice flour (RF), [...] Read more.
The food industry is increasingly interested in using active edible packaging to address environmental problems caused by conventional synthetic polymers, such as pollution and degradation. The present study took advantage of this opportunity to develop active edible packaging using Hom-Chaiya rice flour (RF), incorporating pomelo pericarp essential oil (PEO) at varying concentrations (1–3%). Films without PEO were used as controls. Various physicochemical parameters, structural and morphological observations were examined in the tested films. Overall, the results showed that the addition of PEO at varying concentrations significantly improved the qualities of the RF edible films, particularly the film’s yellowness (b*) and total color. Furthermore, RF-PEO films with increased concentrations significantly reduced the film’s roughness and relative crystallinity, while increasing opacity. The total moisture content in the films did not differ, but water activity was significantly reduced in the RF-PEO films. Water vapor barrier properties also improved in the RF-PEO films. In addition, textural properties, including tensile strength and elongation at break, were better in the RF-PEO films compared with the control. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed strong bonding between the PEO and RF in the film. Morphological studies showed that the addition of PEO smoothed the film’s surface, and this effect increased with concentration. Overall, the biodegradability of the tested films was effective, despite variations; however, a slight advancement in degradation was found in the control film. Lastly, the antimicrobial properties of the RF-PEO films exhibited excellent inhibitory effects against various pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium). This study demonstrated that RF and PEO could be an effective combination for developing active edible packaging that delivers desirable functional properties and excellent biodegradability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Membranes and Membrane Processes in the Food Industry)
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21 pages, 2172 KiB  
Review
Potassium Ion Channels in Glioma: From Basic Knowledge into Therapeutic Applications
by Samar Younes, Nisreen Mourad, Mohamed Salla, Mohamad Rahal and Dalal Hammoudi Halat
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040434 - 15 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1913
Abstract
Ion channels, specifically those controlling the flux of potassium across cell membranes, have recently been shown to exhibit an important role in the pathophysiology of glioma, the most common primary central nervous system tumor with a poor prognosis. Potassium channels are grouped into [...] Read more.
Ion channels, specifically those controlling the flux of potassium across cell membranes, have recently been shown to exhibit an important role in the pathophysiology of glioma, the most common primary central nervous system tumor with a poor prognosis. Potassium channels are grouped into four subfamilies differing by their domain structure, gating mechanisms, and functions. Pertinent literature indicates the vital functions of potassium channels in many aspects of glioma carcinogenesis, including proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. The dysfunction of potassium channels can result in pro-proliferative signals that are highly related to calcium signaling as well. Moreover, this dysfunction can feed into migration and metastasis, most likely by increasing the osmotic pressure of cells allowing the cells to initiate the “escape” and “invasion” of capillaries. Reducing the expression or channel blockage has shown efficacy in reducing the proliferation and infiltration of glioma cells as well as inducing apoptosis, priming several approaches to target potassium channels in gliomas pharmacologically. This review summarizes the current knowledge on potassium channels, their contribution to oncogenic transformations in glioma, and the existing perspectives on utilizing them as potential targets for therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Membrane Permeability and Channels)
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14 pages, 2944 KiB  
Article
Single-Pass Tangential Flow Filtration (SPTFF) of Nanoparticles: Achieving Sustainable Operation with Dilute Colloidal Suspensions for Gene Therapy Applications
by Akshay S. Chaubal and Andrew L. Zydney
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040433 - 15 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2735
Abstract
Recent approval of several viral-vector-based therapeutics has led to renewed interest in the development of more efficient bioprocessing strategies for gene therapy products. Single-Pass Tangential Flow Filtration (SPTFF) can potentially provide inline concentration and final formulation of viral vectors with enhanced product quality [...] Read more.
Recent approval of several viral-vector-based therapeutics has led to renewed interest in the development of more efficient bioprocessing strategies for gene therapy products. Single-Pass Tangential Flow Filtration (SPTFF) can potentially provide inline concentration and final formulation of viral vectors with enhanced product quality due. In this study, SPTFF performance was evaluated using a suspension of 100 nm nanoparticles that mimics a typical lentivirus system. Data were obtained with flat-sheet cassettes having 300 kDa nominal molecular weight cutoff, either in full recirculation or single-pass mode. Flux-stepping experiments identified two critical fluxes, one based on boundary-layer particle accumulation (Jbl) and one based on membrane fouling (Jfoul). The critical fluxes were well-described using a modified concentration polarization model that captures the observed dependence on feed flow rate and feed concentration. Long-duration filtration experiments were conducted under stable SPTFF conditions, with the results suggesting that sustainable performance could potentially be achieved for as much as 6 weeks of continuous operation. These results provide important insights into the potential application of SPTFF for the concentration of viral vectors in the downstream processing of gene therapy agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Polymeric Membranes: Science, Materials and Applications)
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18 pages, 1592 KiB  
Review
Versatile Silver-Nanoparticle-Impregnated Membranes for Water Treatment: A Review
by Achisa C. Mecha, Martha N. Chollom, Bakare F. Babatunde, Emmanuel K. Tetteh and Sudesh Rathilal
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 432; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040432 - 14 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1904
Abstract
Increased affordability, smaller footprint, and high permeability quality that meets stringent water quality standards have accelerated the uptake of membranes in water treatment. Moreover, low pressure, gravity-based microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) membranes eliminate the use of electricity and pumps. However, MF and [...] Read more.
Increased affordability, smaller footprint, and high permeability quality that meets stringent water quality standards have accelerated the uptake of membranes in water treatment. Moreover, low pressure, gravity-based microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) membranes eliminate the use of electricity and pumps. However, MF and UF processes remove contaminants by size exclusion, based on membrane pore size. This limits their application in the removal of smaller matter or even harmful microorganisms. There is a need to enhance the membrane properties to meet needs such as adequate disinfection, flux amelioration, and reduced membrane fouling. To achieve these, the incorporation of nanoparticles with unique properties in membranes has potential. Herein, we review recent developments in the impregnation of polymeric and ceramic microfiltration and ultrafiltration membranes with silver nanoparticles that are applied in water treatment. We critically evaluated the potential of these membranes in enhanced antifouling, increased permeability quality and flux compared to uncoated membranes. Despite the intensive research in this area, most studies have been performed at laboratory scale for short periods of time. There is a need for studies that assess the long-term stability of the nanoparticles and the impact on disinfection and antifouling performance. These challenges are addressed in this study and future directions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Membrane-Based Technologies for Water/Wastewater Treatment)
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16 pages, 8650 KiB  
Article
Endoplasmin Is a Hypoxia-Inducible Endoplasmic Reticulum-Derived Cargo of Extracellular Vesicles Released by Cardiac Cell Lines
by Anna Koncz, Lilla Turiák, Krisztina Németh, Dorina Lenzinger, Tünde Bárkai, Péter Lőrincz, Helga Zelenyánszki, Krisztina V. Vukman, Edit I. Buzás and Tamás Visnovitz
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 431; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040431 - 13 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1646
Abstract
Cardiomyopathies are leading causes of human mortality. Recent data indicate that the cardiomyocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) released upon cardiac injury are present in circulation. This paper aimed to analyze EVs released under normal and hypoxic conditions by H9c2 (rat), AC16 (human) and HL1 [...] Read more.
Cardiomyopathies are leading causes of human mortality. Recent data indicate that the cardiomyocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) released upon cardiac injury are present in circulation. This paper aimed to analyze EVs released under normal and hypoxic conditions by H9c2 (rat), AC16 (human) and HL1 (mouse) cardiac cell lines. Small (sEVs), medium (mEVs) and large EVs (lEVs) were separated from a conditioned medium by a combination of gravity filtration, differential centrifugation and tangential flow filtration. The EVs were characterized by microBCA, SPV lipid assay, nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission and immunogold electron microscopy, flow cytometry and Western blotting. Proteomic profiles of the EVs were determined. Surprisingly, an endoplasmic reticulum chaperone, endoplasmin (ENPL, grp94 or gp96), was identified in the EV samples, and its association with EVs was validated. The secretion and uptake of ENPL was followed by confocal microscopy using GFP-ENPL fusion protein expressing HL1 cells. We identified ENPL as an internal cargo of cardiomyocyte-derived mEVs and sEVs. Based on our proteomic analysis, its presence in EVs was linked to hypoxia in HL1 and H9c2 cells, and we hypothesize that EV-associated ENPL may have a cardioprotective role by reducing cardiomyocyte ER stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progress in Extracellular Vesicle (EV) Analysis)
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19 pages, 5213 KiB  
Article
Efficient Pervaporation for Ethanol Dehydration: Ultrasonic Spraying Preparation of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)/Ti3C2Tx Nanosheet Mixed Matrix Membranes
by Huijuan Tong, Qiao Liu, Nong Xu, Qing Wang, Long Fan, Qiang Dong and Aiqin Ding
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040430 - 13 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1579
Abstract
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) pervaporation (PV) membranes have been extensively studied in the field of ethanol dehydration. The incorporation of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials into the PVA matrix can greatly improve the hydrophilicity of the PVA polymer matrix, thereby enhancing its PV performance. In this [...] Read more.
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) pervaporation (PV) membranes have been extensively studied in the field of ethanol dehydration. The incorporation of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials into the PVA matrix can greatly improve the hydrophilicity of the PVA polymer matrix, thereby enhancing its PV performance. In this work, self-made MXene (Ti3C2Tx-based) nanosheets were dispersed in the PVA polymer matrix, and the composite membranes were fabricated by homemade ultrasonic spraying equipment with poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) electrospun nanofibrous membrane as support. Due to the gentle coating of ultrasonic spraying and following continuous steps of drying and thermal crosslinking, a thin (~1.5 μm), homogenous and defect-free PVA-based separation layer was fabricated on the PTFE support. The prepared rolls of the PVA composite membranes were investigated systematically. The PV performance of the membrane was significantly improved by increasing the solubility and diffusion rate of the membranes to the water molecules through the hydrophilic channels constructed by the MXene nanosheets in the membrane matrix. The water flux and separation factor of the PVA/MXene mixed matrix membrane (MMM) were dramatically increased to 1.21 kg·m−2·h−1 and 1126.8, respectively. With high mechanical strength and structural stability, the prepared PGM-0 membrane suffered 300 h of the PV test without any performance degradation. Considering the promising results, it is likely that the membrane would improve the efficiency of the PV process and reduce energy consumption in the ethanol dehydration. Full article
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18 pages, 4864 KiB  
Review
Green Methods for the Fabrication of Graphene Oxide Membranes: From Graphite to Membranes
by Alessandro Pedico, Luisa Baudino, Anna Aixalà-Perelló and Andrea Lamberti
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040429 - 13 Apr 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2657
Abstract
Graphene oxide (GO) has shown great potential as a membrane material due to its unique properties, including high mechanical strength, excellent thermal stability, versatility, tunability, and outperforming molecular sieving capabilities. GO membranes can be used in a wide range of applications, such as [...] Read more.
Graphene oxide (GO) has shown great potential as a membrane material due to its unique properties, including high mechanical strength, excellent thermal stability, versatility, tunability, and outperforming molecular sieving capabilities. GO membranes can be used in a wide range of applications, such as water treatment, gas separation, and biological applications. However, the large-scale production of GO membranes currently relies on energy-intensive chemical methods that use hazardous chemicals, leading to safety and environmental concerns. Therefore, more sustainable and greener approaches to GO membrane production are needed. In this review, several strategies proposed so far are analyzed, including a discussion on the use of eco-friendly solvents, green reducing agents, and alternative fabrication techniques, both for the preparation of the GO powders and their assembly in membrane form. The characteristics of these approaches aiming to reduce the environmental impact of GO membrane production while maintaining the performance, functionality, and scalability of the membrane are evaluated. In this context, the purpose of this work is to shed light on green and sustainable routes for GO membranes’ production. Indeed, the development of green approaches for GO membrane production is crucial to ensure its sustainability and promote its widespread use in various industrial application fields. Full article
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18 pages, 3801 KiB  
Article
Study of Innovative GO/PBI Composites as Possible Proton Conducting Membranes for Electrochemical Devices
by Matteo Di Virgilio, Andrea Basso Peressut, Angelo Pontoglio, Saverio Latorrata and Giovanni Dotelli
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040428 - 13 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1348
Abstract
The appeal of combining polybenzimidazole (PBI) and graphene oxide (GO) for the manufacturing of membranes is increasingly growing, due to their versatility. Nevertheless, GO has always been used only as a filler in the PBI matrix. In such context, this work proposes the [...] Read more.
The appeal of combining polybenzimidazole (PBI) and graphene oxide (GO) for the manufacturing of membranes is increasingly growing, due to their versatility. Nevertheless, GO has always been used only as a filler in the PBI matrix. In such context, this work proposes the design of a simple, safe, and reproducible procedure to prepare self-assembling GO/PBI composite membranes characterized by GO-to-PBI (X:Y) mass ratios of 1:3, 1:2, 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1. SEM and XRD suggested a homogenous reciprocal dispersion of GO and PBI, which established an alternated stacked structure by mutual π-π interactions among the benzimidazole rings of PBI and the aromatic domains of GO. TGA indicated a remarkable thermal stability of the composites. From mechanical tests, improved tensile strengths but worsened maximum strains were observed with respect to pure PBI. The preliminary evaluation of the suitability of the GO/PBI X:Y composites as proton exchange membranes was executed via IEC determination and EIS. GO/PBI 2:1 (IEC: 0.42 meq g−1; proton conductivity at 100 °C: 0.0464 S cm−1) and GO/PBI 3:1 (IEC: 0.80 meq g−1; proton conductivity at 100 °C: 0.0451 S cm−1) provided equivalent or superior performances with respect to similar PBI-based state-of-the-art materials. Full article
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17 pages, 2053 KiB  
Article
Predicting Water Flux in Forward Osmosis with Unknown Feed Solution Composition: An Empirical Approach Based on Thermodynamical Properties
by Bastian Greisner, Dieter Mauer, Frank Rögener and André Lerch
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040427 - 12 Apr 2023
Viewed by 1483
Abstract
This study investigated the predictability of forward osmosis (FO) performance with an unknown feed solution composition, which is important in industrial applications where process solutions are concentrated but their composition is unknown. A fit function of the unknown solution’s osmotic pressure was created, [...] Read more.
This study investigated the predictability of forward osmosis (FO) performance with an unknown feed solution composition, which is important in industrial applications where process solutions are concentrated but their composition is unknown. A fit function of the unknown solution’s osmotic pressure was created, correlating it with the recovery rate, limited by solubility. The osmotic concentration was derived and used in the subsequent simulation of the permeate flux in the considered FO membrane. For comparison, magnesium chloride and magnesium sulfate solutions were used since these show a particularly strong deviation from the ideal osmotic pressure according to Van’t Hoff and are, thus, characterized by an osmotic coefficient unequal to 1. The simulation is based on the solution–diffusion model with consideration of external and internal concentration polarization phenomena. Here, a membrane module was subdivided into 25 segments of equal membrane area, and the module performance was solved by a numerical differential. Experiments in a laboratory scale for validation confirmed that the simulation gave satisfactory results. The recovery rate in the experimental run could be described for both solutions with a relative error of less than 5%, while the calculated water flux as a mathematical derivative of the recovery rate showed a bigger deviation. Full article
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16 pages, 885 KiB  
Article
A Hybrid Method for Performance Degradation Probability Prediction of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
by Yanyan Hu, Li Zhang, Yunpeng Jiang, Kaixiang Peng and Zengwang Jin
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040426 - 12 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1428
Abstract
The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is a promising power source, but the short lifespan and high maintenance cost restrict its development and widespread application. Performance degradation prediction is an effective technique to extend the lifespan and reduce the maintenance cost of [...] Read more.
The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is a promising power source, but the short lifespan and high maintenance cost restrict its development and widespread application. Performance degradation prediction is an effective technique to extend the lifespan and reduce the maintenance cost of PEMFC. This paper proposed a novel hybrid method for the performance degradation prediction of PEMFC. Firstly, considering the randomness of PEMFC degradation, a Wiener process model is established to describe the degradation of the aging factor. Secondly, the unscented Kalman filter algorithm is used to estimate the degradation state of the aging factor from monitoring voltage. Then, in order to predict the degradation state of PEMFC, the transformer structure is used to capture the data characteristics and fluctuations of the aging factor. To quantify the uncertainty of the predicted results, we also add the Monte Carlo dropout technology to the transformer to obtain the confidence interval of the predicted result. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method are verified on the experimental datasets. Full article
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21 pages, 26154 KiB  
Article
Occurrence and Treatment of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Present in Surface Water
by João Sério, Ana Paula Marques, Rosa Huertas, João Goulão Crespo and Vanessa Jorge Pereira
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040425 - 11 Apr 2023
Viewed by 2110
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, antibiotic resistance is one of the main threats to global health. The excessive use of several antibiotics has led to the widespread distribution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes in various environment matrices, including surface water. [...] Read more.
According to the World Health Organization, antibiotic resistance is one of the main threats to global health. The excessive use of several antibiotics has led to the widespread distribution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes in various environment matrices, including surface water. In this study, total coliforms, Escherichia coli and enterococci, as well as total coliforms and Escherichia coli resistant to ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, ampicillin, streptomycin, and imipenem, were monitored in several surface water sampling events. A hybrid reactor was used to test the efficiency of membrane filtration, direct photolysis (using UV-C light emitting diodes that emit light at 265 nm and UV-C low pressure mercury lamps that emit light at 254 nm), and the combination of both processes to ensure the retention and inactivation of total coliforms and Escherichia coli as well as antibiotic-resistant bacteria (total coliforms and Escherichia coli) present in river water at occurrence levels. The membranes used (unmodified silicon carbide membranes and the same membrane modified with a photocatalytic layer) effectively retained the target bacteria. Direct photolysis using low-pressure mercury lamps and light-emitting diode panels (emitting at 265 nm) achieved extremely high levels of inactivation of the target bacteria. The combined treatment (unmodified and modified photocatalytic surfaces in combination with UV-C and UV-A light sources) successfully retained the bacteria and treated the feed after 1 h of treatment. The hybrid treatment proposed is a promising approach to use as point-of-use treatment by isolated populations or when conventional systems and electricity fail due to natural disasters or war. Furthermore, the effective treatment obtained when the combined system was used with UV-A light sources indicates that the process may be a promising approach to guarantee water disinfection using natural sunlight. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection New Challenges in Membranes for Water and Wastewater Application)
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13 pages, 2570 KiB  
Article
Microbubble-Assisted Cleaning-in-Place Process for Ultrafiltration System and Its Environmental Performance
by Monique Mi Song Chung, April J. Arbour and Jen-Yi Huang
Membranes 2023, 13(4), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes13040424 - 10 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1890
Abstract
Membrane filtration is a key technology in dairy processing for the separation of dairy liquids to clarify, concentrate, and fractionate a variety of dairy products. Ultrafiltration (UF) is widely applied for whey separation, protein concentration and standardization, and lactose-free milk production, though its [...] Read more.
Membrane filtration is a key technology in dairy processing for the separation of dairy liquids to clarify, concentrate, and fractionate a variety of dairy products. Ultrafiltration (UF) is widely applied for whey separation, protein concentration and standardization, and lactose-free milk production, though its performance can be hindered by membrane fouling. As an automated cleaning process commonly used in the food and beverage industries, cleaning in place (CIP) uses large amounts of water, chemicals, and energy, resulting in significant environmental impacts. This study introduced micron-scale air-filled bubbles (microbubbles; MBs) with mean diameters smaller than 5 μm into cleaning liquids to clean a pilot-scale UF system. During the UF of model milk for concentration, cake formation was identified as the dominant membrane fouling mechanism. The MB-assisted CIP process was conducted at two bubble number densities (2021 and 10,569 bubbles per mL of cleaning liquid) and two flow rates (130 and 190 L/min). For all the cleaning conditions tested, MB addition largely increased the membrane flux recovery by 31–72%; however, the effects of bubble density and flow rate were insignificant. Alkaline wash was found to be the main step in removing proteinaceous foulant from the UF membrane, though MBs did not show a significant effect on the removal due to the operational uncertainty of the pilot-scale system. The environmental benefits of MB incorporation were quantified by a comparative life cycle assessment and the results indicated that MB-assisted CIP had up to 37% lower environmental impact than control CIP. This is the first study incorporating MBs into a full CIP cycle at the pilot scale and proving their effectiveness in enhancing membrane cleaning. This novel CIP process can help reduce water and energy use in dairy processing and improve the environmental sustainability of the dairy industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Membrane Science and Technology in North America)
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