Microfiltration (MF) membranes with
chitosan/polystyrenesulfonate
(CHI/PSS) functional layer coated surface can act as a barrier against
emerging contaminants (ECs) in water under low pressure. One (one
bilayer) or two functional layers are enough for the removal of lidocaine
(LD, 100%) and ibuprofen (IBU, >75%). The effect of various ions,
surfactant and humic acid is studied along with the influence of feed
pH. Phosphate interferes negatively with the removal efficiency of
membrane for IBU and sulfamethoxazole (SMZ). The reusability of the
membranes are illustrated by the desorption studies of LD. The extended
life of membrane and hence the antifouling nature of the selected
ECs indicate its potential in small scale filtration units. Effect
of ionic strength in feed and in deposition medium on the rejection
percentage is presented. This study shows that various mechanisms
depending on the properties of ECs are responsible for the rejection
of ECs.