Silver Nanoparticles to Reduce Membrane Biofouling

Scientists at Michigan State University and the PERMEANT Group describes how they are infusing membranes with nanotechnology in order to improve membrane performance, particularly in the field of water purification.  While the use of nanotechnology to expand membrane permeability, selectivity, and resistance has grown more frequent over the last 20 or so years, the new research by these groups is taking this approach in interesting directions.  For instance, on one project they have demonstrated that by adding silver nanoparticles into the polymer matrix of the membrane that the mixture is effective at reducing intrapore biofouling.  Experimentation also shows that this method could also be used to inhibit the biofilm growth on downstream membrane surfaces.  

Hopefully with every little improvement that these teams make will lead them a step closer to their goal of making the world’s supply of drinking water safer for all of us.  

   

You can read more about this research here.