Work

Synergistic Prevention of Biofouling in Seawater Desalination by Zwitterionic Surfaces and Low‐Level Chlorination

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: Smooth, durable, ultrathin antifouling layers are deposited onto commercial reverse osmosis membranes without damaging them and they exhibit a fouling reduction. A new synergistic approach to antifouling, by coupling surface modification and drinking-water-level chlorination is enabled by the films' unique resistance against chlorine degradation. This approach substantially enhances longer-term fouling resistance compared with surface modification or chlorination alone, and can reduce freshwater production cost and its collateral toxicity to marine biota.

Source: Advanced Materials

DOI: 10.1002/adma.201304386

Authors: Rong Yang, Hongchul Jang, Roman Stocker, Karen K. Gleason

Institution: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Membrane Separation Technologies

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: green

Funders: U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Public Health Service, National Institute of General Medical Sciences