FABRICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PVDF POLY (VINYLIDENE FLUORIDE)-MEMBRANES USING DIMETHYL SULFOXIDE (DMSO): OPTIMIZING POLYMER CONCENTRATIONS FOR METHYLENE BLUE REMOVAL AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT

Abstract

Fabrication and characterization of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membranes using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a solvent, focusing on optimizing polymer concentrations (14%, 16%, 18%, and 20% w/w) for enhanced methylene blue (MB) dye removal and wastewater treatment. The concentration of MB was studied using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, demonstrating significant dye adsorption. Additionally, wastewater samples were treated to assess reductions in total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). 14% PVDF membranes exhibited large pores and poor mechanical integrity, while 20% PVDF membranes were overly dense, leading to rapid fouling. Conversely, 16% and 18% PVDF membranes demonstrated optimal performance, balancing porosity and mechanical stability. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) technique was used to identify different functional groups, while Differential Scanning calorimetry (DSC) was also used to assess thermal stability and behavior of membranes. Dead-end filtration tests evaluated flux performance. Contact angle measurements using a goniometer revealed moderate hydrophobicity. These studies contribute to the development of optimized PVDF membranes for industrial-scale dye removal and wastewater treatment applications, highlighting the importance of polymer concentration in membrane performance. By optimizing membrane properties, this research paves the way for sustainable and efficient water treatment solutions.