Adsorption-based filtration membranes for wastewater treatment

Filtration membrane adsorption, an integrated technology combining membrane technology and adsorption technology, has been widely used in biomedicine, green energy, light industry, food, and wastewater treatment. The adsorptive filtration membranes, which have superior advantages, such as easy modification, good flexibility, high porosity, and large specific surface area, are considered promising adsorbents. In this chapter, the progress of adsorptive filtration membranes in treating wastewater includes a wide variety of contaminants, ranging from heavy metals such as chrome, lead, and mercury, to organics such as methyl orange and methylene blue dyes, to toxic inorganics such as ammonia nitrogen, phosphorus, and fluoride, which are reviewed. Moreover, the types of the adsorptive filtration membranes and adsorption mechanisms are also determined. At the present stage, the main challenges are to produce high-quality adsorption filtration membranes and their usage in the remediation of wastewater containing various contaminants. Consequently, more promotion of mechanical strength, stability, and versatility of the filtration membranes should be focused on. This chapter may offer insight into the progress of filtration membrane adsorbents for contaminants remediation as well as water purification in the future.