A novel
polysulfone–cerium oxide (Psf–ceria) mixed-matrix
membrane (MMM) with enhanced γ radiation resistant property
was developed. Ceria nanoparticles were synthesized by gel-combustion
route and then various concentrations of ceria (0.1–2% of Psf)
were incorporated in the polysulfone matrix to synthesize Psf–ceria
MMMs. Radiation stability of the synthesized membranes was checked
with γ radiation doses of 100, 500, and 1000 kGy. Ceria nanoparticles
were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron
spectroscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), transmission electron
microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy techniques. These
characterizations confirmed the successful synthesis of pure, crystalline,
and 12 nm average size ceria nanoparticles. Psf–ceria MMMs
were synthesized by non-solvent-induced phase inversion technique.
The effect of radiation on the morphology and topography of membranes
was analyzed using scanning electron and atomic force microscopy studies.
The physicochemical properties were examined by drop shape analyzer,
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography,
and XRD studies. These analyses confirmed that ceria nanoparticles
were uniformly distributed throughout the Psf membrane matrix without
any chemical interaction between the ceria and Psf. The internal structure
was evaluated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and SAXS
techniques. The mechanical properties were assessed by universal testing
machine. The performance of the membranes was analyzed through pure
water permeability and solute (poly(ethylene oxide), 100 kDa) rejection
studies. Psf–ceria MMMs showed enhanced stability in the performance
compared to that of control Psf membrane. The stability of ceria is
due to its two oxidation states and its ability to scavenge free radicals
by swiping between those two states (Ce4+ ↔ Ce3+). This makes the MMMs radiation resistant, with 0.5–1%
loaded Psf–ceria membrane five times enhanced life span in
intermediate liquid radioactive effluent environment, compared to
control Psf membrane.
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