Sonication-assisted preparation of pristine MWCNT-polysulfone conductive microporous membranes

Conductive microporous membranes were fabricated by the phase inversion technique from pristine multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT)-polysulfone mixtures. A sonication-assisted method was used to disperse MWCNT in the polysulfone matrix without a covalent modification of the MWCNT or the use of surfactants. Electron Microscopy (SEM) and conduction tests were used to characterize the membranes. SEM pictures indicated that a concentration of 3% of MWCNT allowed a good dispersion of the nanotubes inside the hydrophobic polysulfone matrix. Current-voltage tests showed efficient electron percolation pathways across the membrane as a result of the successful dispersion of pristine MWCNT. These membranes will be applied in separation of charged species where microfiltration together with application of electric fields is needed. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.