A synergistic approach to improving antifouling and antibacterial properties of Ag/DBR/PES membrane

In this study, a novel approach was employed to address the persistent challenge of biofouling in membranebased separation processes. The method involved enhancing the antifouling and antibacterial properties of polyethersulfone (PES) membranes through the incorporation of dragon's blood resin (DBR) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Four types of membranes with different compositions were prepared and subjected to various characterization including antibacterial test. The introduction of silver coating (M-DB/Fe/Ag) led to an increase in hydrophilicity of the membrane, which changed to higher permeability and very good humic acid rejection (R: 98.32 %) and flux recovery ratio (FRR: 95.87 %). SEM analysis revealed the presence of crystalline particles, indicating a successful Ag coating, followed by a stable negative charge on the membrane surface. Among the prepared membranes, only M-DB/Fe/Ag exhibited antibacterial activity against E. coli with an inhibition zone diameter of 9.46 mm. Based on its anti-biofouling properties, the results have significant potential for various applications.