g-c3n4 modified chitosan composite ultrafiltration (uf) membranes for improved performance and fouling resistance

In this study, a hydrophilic graphitic carbon nitride (g-c3n4) nanosheets was grafted with chitosan compound to produce nh2 groups on the surface of g-c3n4 to fabricate ultrafiltration (uf) membranes with excellent antifouling and desalination properties. the results of ftir and edx analysis indicated the successful introduction of functional groups on the surface of g-c3n4 nanosheets. based on the afm results, the surface of the membranes modified with the functionalized g-c3n4- chitosan showed decreased roughness compared with membrane modified with bare g-c3n4 nanosheets. the surface hydrophilicity of the membranes was evaluated using contact angle analysis and the results showed an increase in the hydrophilicity of the modified membranes. the effect of incorporated g- g-c3n4- chitosan on the performance of the membranes was studied using pure water flux, nacl and bsa solution filtration. the outcomes showed that introducing of the functionalized g- g-c3n4- chitosan in the membranes improved considerably the membrane permeation without decrease in rejection performance.