A Review of the Effect of Ionic/Zwitterionic Materials on Membrane Performance for Heavy Metal Removal Application

Abstract

The usage of ionic/zwitterionic modified polymeric membranes for heavy metal removal applications is one of the developing technologies. Ionic/zwitterionic polymers are a new class of antifouling materials. The ability to coordinate with different metal ions makes these materials more attractive. The heavy metals present in water even at low concentrations have a huge impact on humans and animals. The toxic and non-biodegradable nature of heavy metals mandates their necessary removal from water and wastewater. Conventional methods are time-consuming and not cost-effective. Many efforts have been undertaken recently to improve heavy metal removal efficiency of polymeric membranes by incorporating ionic/zwitterionic materials. In this chapter, the usage of ionic/zwitterionic materials to improve the performance of adsorptive removal membranes, ultrafiltration (UF) and nanofiltration (NF) membranes for heavy metal removal applications is discussed. © 2024 selection and editorial matter, Juhana Jaafar, Asad A. Zaidi and Muhammad Nihal Naseer.