A green, efficient, and degradable poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)/TiO2 hybrid membrane for water treatment

Biodegradable membranes can be decomposed after use, aligning seamlessly with the principles of eco-friendly environmental conservation prevalent in modern society. In this study, poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)/TiO2 hybrid membranes have been prepared by adding nano-TiO2 into biodegradable PBS. The impact of nano-TiO2 on the structure, properties, and degradability of membrane are investigated. The incorporation of nano-TiO2 has a favorable influence on the mechanical properties of membrane, with tensile strength increased by 80.37 %. When the TiO2 content is 3 wt%, the hybrid membrane demonstrates a significant enhancement in pure water flux, reaching 56.41 L·m−2·h−1. This flux is 6 times greater than that of pure PBS membrane. Meanwhile, the BSA rejection remains at approximately 95 %. Moreover, the flux recovery of membrane increases from 71.52 % to 96.19 %, and total fouling decreased from 57.09 % to 38.05 %. In long-term use, the permeation flux remains stable between 52.14 and 59.76 L·m−2·h−1, and the BSA rejection is about 93.49 %. Consequently, the membrane maintains its fundamental performance. After service, hybrid membranes can be degraded immediately in alkali solution. This study provides a feasible solution for the development of green, efficient and degradable membranes for wastewater treatment, and opens up a new way for circular economy in membrane technology.