An outlook on membranes: Types, synthesis, and application in membrane technology

Abstract

Membrane based separation technologies are expanding globally to meet the demand of fresh water. Considering the perspective, this review paper summarizes the state of art of different Ion-exchange membranes (IEMs) with varying functional groups, materials, and their mode of synthesis to understand their influence in overall separation efficiency processes. Herein, the fundamental aspects of membrane phenomena with its selectivity for different counter and co-ions have been discussed in detail. Emphasis on membrane types and their synthesis parameters (i.e., loading capacity, aspect ratio of materials, filler size, filler agglomeration, and polymer-filler interaction) are being made. Lastly, the various applications of the membrane along with the basic design and challenges are discussed for longer lifetime of membrane. Thus, a profound understanding of the membrane phenomena, its attached ionic groups and interfacial properties would further help to explore the membrane-based technologies.

Keywords

• Ion-exchange membranes
• Counter and co-ions
• Selectivity
• Permselectivity
• Membrane potential
• Separation