Polyethersulfone/poly (butylene succinate) membrane: Effect of preparation conditions on properties and performance

In this study, biodegradable polymer of poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) was blended with polyethersulfone (PES) to prepare a novel semi-biodegradable membrane. The effect of blend ratio and coagulation bath temperature (CBT) was investigated on membrane characteristics including membrane morphology, mechanical strength and also treatment ability. Moreover, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum, thermal stability, biodegradation and contact angle of the membranes were studied. Results demonstrated that the wastewater permeation through the prepared membranes was increased by blending the polymers and reached to maximum at blend ratio of 50/50. The wastewater treatment of PES/PBS blend membranes was improved by increasing PBS content.