A superhydrophobic and nanofibrous high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) membrane was fabricated using electroblowing technique. The neat HIPS membrane was then subjected to the hot-pressing process to increase mechanical strength, narrowing pore size distribution, and also improving liquid entry pressure of water (LEP). The membrane characteristics (surface morphology, hydrophobicity, LEP, porosity, as well as mechanical properties) and direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) performance (permeate flux and dye rejection factor) of the fabricated membranes were assessed using synthetic disperse dye solutions (0.4, 0.8 and 1.2 g/L) under constant DCMD condition. HIPS membranes maintained their durability even after operating at the highest concentration. The obtained results demonstrated that the dye removals were higher than 99.8% when different concentrations of dye were used as the feed. The permeate flux decline and surface fouling were increased by increasing the feed concentration. However, the surface contact angle of membranes subjected to DCMD tests was still in the range of hydrophobic surface (> 90 degrees). Given these attributes, nanofibrous HIPS membrane can be considered as a potential alternative for membrane distillation in dying water treatment. Furthermore, DCMD can utilize the high temperature of dyeing baths as a viable heat source.

• Journal: International Journal Of Environmental Science And Technology
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• ISSN: 1735-1472
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• Type: Journal Article