Nanofibers
can be developed as novel micro-filtration membranes, with
intrinsic abilities to remove particles in the size range
of 3-10 microns (>95 % rejection) without a significant
drop in a high-flux performance. Therefore, the electrospun
nanofiber membrane can be used as a micro-filtration membrane
for particulate and microbial removal from waste waters,
including ship ballast water. Moreover, silver nanoparticle-hybridized
membrane can kill residual microorganism, further increasing
the rejection rate and reducing contamination risks.
The objectives
of this project are: (a) develop a novel micro-filtration
nanofiber membrane for particulate (including microbial)
removal from waste water; (b) to develop a bacteriocidal
nanofiber membrane for ship ballast water filtration by hybridizing
silver particles into the nanofiber membrane; (c) to develop
a novel affinity nanofiber membrane for removal of heavy
metal and persistent organic contaminants from industrial
waste water. |
