Mercapto functionalized–natural zeolites/PVDF mixed matrix membrane for enhanced removal of methylene blue

•The PVDF/Mercapto-NZ mixed matrix membranes were prepared by the inversion phase method.•The surface modification of zeolite using MPTMS as a bridging agent enhanced the compatibility between PVDF and zeolite.•MPTMS can be covalently bonded to the outer space of NZ and interact with PVDF through thiol groups.•A concentration of 0.75% Mercapto-NZ showed excellent results with high permeability and selectivity.