Preparation and characterization of graphene oxide (GO) hydrogel composite membrane: Water and salt transport

Abstract

In desalination and water purification, polymer membranes, such as polyamide, are commonly used, but there are still many challenges to be developed. It is necessary to find proper materials to achieve high permeability and high water/salt selectivity. For example, carbon nanotubes show fast water permeability due to their narrow hydrophobic channels. However it will be a long journey to be practically available. We have proposed new multilayered membranes prepared by stacking of small 2D nanoplates or nanosheets, such as graphene oxide. However, these membranes have high transport resistance because of long diffusion path. Therefore, in this study, we prepare graphene oxide composite membrane in PEGDA hydrogel matrix, and here we will discuss the water and salt transport properties through these membranes.